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HISTORY 



THE UNITED STATES, 

ruOM TUffl 

DISCOVERY OF AMERICA 



THE CLOSE OF THE YEAR 1862 

|flr tbc u$t of %tMs. 




CAPITOI, AT WASaiNaXO.Y, 
COMPILED JROM AUTHENTIC SOURCES 

By WILLIAM ROBERTS. 
PHILADELPHIA: X>j-., 

SOWEU, BARNES & ct 



:P 






Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1861, hy 

WILLIAM ROBERTS, 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United StateS; in and for the 
Eastern District of Pennsylvania. 

Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1863, hy 

WILLIAM ROBERTS, 

:n the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, in and for the 
Eastern District of Pennsylvania. 

MEARS k PU6ENBEBT, STEREOTYPERS. 



^h^"^ 



PREFACE. 



The compiler of the following pages, during his long 
experience as a teacher, often felt the necessity of a text- 
book which should give a correct and lucid exposition of 
American history. 

He found the youthful memory burdened with extra- 
neous matter, clogged with abstractions, and wearied with 
the petty details of colonial government. 

If '' History is Philosophy teaching by example," it 
should appear to us in a pure and truthful garb, unsullied 
by party prejudice or sectarian bigotry. 

It should not be a vehicle of misrepresentation and cal- 
umny, nor a channel fer unmerited detraction or fulsome 
praise. 

Contemporary writers of a nation's history too often 
impart to passing events the bias of their own minds, and, 
therefore, most historical records come to us tinted with 
the writer's aversions or partialities. 

The writer of a text-book of history intended for Ameri- 

(3) 



IV PREFACE. 

can youth, soon to become American citizens, cannot be too 
careful in the selection of facts not distorted by faction or 
flattery. 

In the treatise now presented to the public, the compiler 
liiis striven to avoid the errors arising from sectarian or 
partisan statements, and to present the records of history 
drawn from the most reliable sources. 

He has devoted much time and labor in consulting the 
best authorities, and recorded nothing which is not sub- 
stantiated by standard historians. 

In this compilation he has ignored sect and party. Factn 
only are presented, and the mind of the youthful student 
left in freedom as to the principles and motives of the 
actors in this grand drama, who pass in review before him. 

This work is divided into sections, with numbered para- 
graphs. The first section gives a brief account of the early 
discoveries and attempted settlements. The next section 
embraces the history of the settlements of the seventeenth 
century, and the prominent events of the thirteen original 
colonies. This is followed by the French War, the American 
Revolution, the Confederation of States, the adoption of 
the Constitution, and the Federal Union; with a succinct 
account of every Presidential Administration to the close 
of the year 1862. 

Philadelphia, 1863. 



CONTENTS 



DISCOVERIES OP THE FIFTEENTH AND SIXTEENTH 
CENTURIES. 

Discovery of America — Cabot's voyage — Cortcreal — Juan Pone* 
<le Leon — Discovery of Florida — Verrazani — Cartier — Ferdinand 
dc Soto — Discovery of the Mississippi — Quebec — Attempted set- 
tlements in Florida — Gilbert's expedition — Raleigh's attempts 
to establish colonies Page 13 

THE SETTLEMENTS OP THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY. 

Oosnold's voyage — Cape Cod — The London Company — The Ply- 
mouth Company — Newport's voyage — Settlement of James- 
town — Captain John Smith — First Legislature — Slavery — Indian 
hostilities — Sir John Harvey — Freedom under Cromwell — 
Restoration of the monarchy 22 

Massachusetts. — Settlement on the Kennebec — Captain Smith 
names the country New Englalid — Settlement of Plymouth — 
Salem — Colony of Massachusetts Bay — Roger Williams — Union 
^f New England colonies — Indian war — Sir Edmund Andross 
governor — King William's war 27 

New York. — Henry Hudson's voyage — Settlement of Manhattan — 
New Netherlands — Algonquin war — Surrender to the English — 
New York — Albany — Charter of Liberties — Imprisonment of 
Andross— Earl of Bellamont — Lord Cornbury . . 81 

(5) 



VI CONTENTS. 

New Hampshire. — Settlement of Dover — Portsmouth — Exeter — 
Assembly at Portsmouth — Governor Cranfield — Samuel Allen 
governor 34 

New Jersey. — Cape May — Fori Nassau — Bergen — Assignment to 
Berkeley and Carteret — Elizabethtown — Quit-rents demanded — 
Salem — Byllinge, proprietor — Sells West New Jersey to the 
Friends — Carteret proprietor of East New Jersey — Sells his share 
to William Penn and Friends — Union of the two Jerseys — Lord 
Cornl ury governor — Lewis Morris governor of New Jersey 30 

Maryland. — Settlement on the Patuxent — Kent Island — Sir George 
Calvert — Settlement of St. Mary's — William Clayborne — Indian 
War — Philip Calvert — Character of Lord Baltimore— Annapolis 
the capital — Changes of government in Maryland . . 31' 

Delaware. — Settlement at Cape Henlopen— Lewes — Massacre of 
the Dutch settlers— Swedish expedition — Purchase of land — 
Settlement at Christiana Creek — Tinicum — Fort Cassimir, on 
the site of New Castle — Surrender to the Dutch — Conquest of 
the Dutch — Delaware a dependency of New York — Conveyed t.. 
William Penn 42 

Connecticut. — Fort at Hartford — Earl of Warwick proprietor of 
the territory — Lord Say and Seal — Trading-house at Windsor — 
Windsor and Weathersfield — Rev. Thomas Hooker settles Hart- 
ford — Pequod war — Settlement of New Haven — Government of 
the colony — New charter from Charles II. — Fort at Saybrook — 
Charter demanded and concealed — Charter Oak — Governor 
Fletcher — Resolution of Captain Wadsworth . . . 45 

Rhode Island. — Settlement at Providence— Portsmouth — New- 
port — Roger Williams obtains a charter . . . • 48 

North Carolina. — First settlement in North Carolina — Lor.l 
Clarendon's charter — Locke's Constitution — Culpepper's insur- 
rection — Sothel's government — John Archdale — Tuscarora In- 

(ijans make war 50 

V . 



CONTENTS. "^" 

South CAKOLiNA.-Settlement at Port Royal-Settlement on 
Ashley River-Charleston— Slavery— Colleton govcrnor-Seth 
Sothel— Archdale's government— War with Florida— Siege of St. 
Augustine-Defeat of Indians-Yamasee war-Alliance with 
the Cherokees . • 

PENNSYLVANiA.-Swcdish Settlements of Pennsylvania-Grant to 
William Penn-Landing of English settlers-Penn lands at 
New Castle-Landing in Philadelphia-The first Asscmbly- 
Penn's return to England-Colonel Fletcher governor-Penns- 
return to Pennsylvania-New frame of government-Death of 
William Penn 

OEOBGiA—General Oglethorpe-Savannah-European settlers- 
Ceorge Whitefield-Fort St. George built-War with Spain- 
Invasion of Georgia-Oglethovpe returns to England . 61 



COLONIAL HISTORY. 

Feom the Ccmmkncement of the Eighteenth CKNTunv to thk 
End of the French War in 1763.-Queen Anne s war-King 
George's war-Washington's embassy-Fort Duquesne built- 
Battle at the Great Meadows-Fort Necessity-Braddoc.s de- 
feat-Expedition against Nova Scotia-Fort Edward built-- 
Battle at Lake George-Fort William Henry-Siege of Louis- 
bour^^-Attack on Ticonderoga-Fort Front enac- Gen era: 
Forbes sent against Duquesne-Siege of Oswego-Seuure of 
Tieonderoga and Crown Point-General Wolfe attocks Quebec- 
Montcalm defends the city-Defeat of the French-Death of 
Wolfe-Of Montcalm-Treaty of peace-France surrenders her 
.. possessions in America 

From the French War to the REVOLUTioN.-Pontiac's war- 

The colonies taxed-The Stamp Act-Troops sent to Boston- • 

Boston Massacre-Duty on tea-Boston Port Bill-Meeting of 

ft General Congress-General Gage military governor . 7^ 

1 



Vlll CONTENTS. 



THE REVOLUTION. 



Battle of Lexington — Ethan Allen's expedition — Seizure of Ti- 
coudei'oga — Colonel Wai-ner — Colonel Arnold — The Continental 
Congress — George Washington commander-in-chief — Bunkor 
Hill — Arnold's expedition to Canada — Montgomery captures 
Montreal — Battle of Quebec — Death of Montgomery — Lord 
Dunmore . .85 

Events op 1776. — The siege of Boston — American troops evacuate 
Canada— Attack on Charleston — Sullivan's Island — Declaration 
of Independence — General Howe lands on Staten Island — 
Battle of Long Island — White Plains — Capture of Fort Waslt- 
ington — Fort Lee — Retreat through New Jersey — General Lea 
taken prisoner — Battle of Trenton .... "Jo 

Events of 1777. — Battle of Princeton — Burning of Danbury — 
Attack on Sag Harbor — General St. Clair abandons Ticonde- 
roga — Battle of Hubbardton — Oriskany — Siege of Fort Schuy- 
ler — Battle of Bennington — Battle of Brandywine — Massacre at 
Paoli — Capture of Philadelphia — Battle of Stillwater — Saratoga 
— *Burgoyne's surrender — Battle of Germantown — Fort Mercer 
—Valley Forge (fO 

Events of 1778. — British leave Philadelphia — Battle of Mon- 
mouth — General Lee — Siege of Newport — Massacre at Tappan — 
Wyoming — Expedition sent to invade Georgia — Capture of Sa- 
vannah — Winter quarters at Middlebrook . . . K'S 

Events of 1779. — The war in South Carolina and Georgia — In 
Virginia — In Connecticut — Capture of Stony Point — The fort at 
Paulus Hook — General Sullivan's expedition against the In- 
dians — The squadron under Captain Paul Jones — French fleet 
under Count D'Estaing — Siege of the British at Savannah — 
Count Pulaski — Sergeant Jasper 112 

Events of 1780.— -Winter quarters at Morristown — Siege of 



CONTENTS. IX 

Charleston— General Lincoln capitulates— Waxlia-w— General 
Gates— Battle of Sanders' Creek— Death of De Kalb— Colonel 
Sumter— Tarleton— Treason of Arnold— Interview between him 
and Andr6— Arrest of the latter— Flight of Arnold— Death of 
Andre— Battle of King's Mountain— General Marion— Greene 
supersedes Gates— Great Britain at war witli Holland, France, 
and Spain 1^^ 

INVENTS OF 1781, AND Close OF THE rvEvoLUTioN.— Pennsylvania 
troops demand redress— Arnold invades Virginia— Capture of 
Richmond— General Greene at Charlotte, North Carolina- 
Battle of the Cowpens— Morgan's retreat— Battle of Guilford 
Court House— Hobkirk's Hill— Capture of Forts Watson, Motte, 
and Granby— Lord Cornwallis takes command in Virginia— 
Pursued by General La Fayette— Fortifies Yorktown— Arnold's 
invasion of Connecticut— Burning of New London— Battle of 
Eutaw Springs— French fleet in the Chesapeake— Siege of 
Yorktown— Surrender of Cornwallis— Washington at Newburg— 
Treaty of peace— New York evacuated— Washington resigns his 
125 



commissiou 



THE C0NFE£)ERATI0N. 

Shay's Insurrection — Federal Convention — Adoption of ihe Con-^ 
HLitution— The first election 135 



THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. 

Washington's Administration. — Meeting of Congress — Heads 
of departments — The public debt— District of Columbia— Har- 
raer's expedition against the Indians— Seat of government re- 
moved to Philadelphia — Vermont and Kentucky admitted — 
French Revolution — Proclamation of neutrality — Genet — St 
Clair's defeat — General Wayne's success— Treaty with the In- 
dians — Jay's Treaty — Insurrection in Pennsylvania — Treaty 
with Spain — Algiers— Tennessee admitted— President's Fare- 
well Address 138 



* CONTENTS. 

John Adams' Administration. ^Trouble with France— Prospect 
of war — Washiugton appointed commander-in-chief — Capture 
of a French frigate— Death of Washington — Removal of seat of 
government to Washington City— Treaty of peace with France- 
Mr. Jefferson elected President 14.6 

Thomas Jefferson's Administration. — Tripoli declares war — 
Ohio admitted — Purchase of Louisiana — Loss of the frigate 
Philadelphia — Exploit of Decatur — Eaton's expedition again«t 
Tripoli — Treaty of peace — Seizure of American vessels by Eng- 
land and France — Burr's trial — Attack on the frigate Chesa- 
peake— '* Orders in Council" — "Milan Decree" — Embargo- 
Mr. Madison elected President 149 

James Madison's Administratlon.— Frigate President and the 
Little Belt — Battle of Tippecanoe — Louisiana admitted — "War 
declared against Great Britain — Hull's invasion of Canada — 
Surrender of Detroit — Battle on the Niagara — Naval battles- 
Essex and Alert — Constitution and Guerriere — Wasp and Frolic 
— United States and Macedonian — Battle of Frenchtown — Siego 
of Fort Meigs— Battle at York, Upper Canada — Sackett's Har- 
bor — War with the Creeks — Naval battles — Hornet and Peacock 
— Chesapeake and Shannon— Perry's victory on Lake Erie — 
Argus and Pelican — British squadron in Chesapeake Bay- 
Battle on the river Thames— Capture of Fort Erie— Battle of 
Chippewa — Lundy's Lane — Siege of Fort Erie — The Essex, 
Commodore Porter, captured — Frolic captured by the Orpheus- 
Peacock and Epervier — The Wasp and Reindeer — Capture of 
Washington — Battle of Plattsburg— McDonough's victory op 
Lake Champlain — The Wasp and Reindeer — V/"asp lost at sea — 
Attack on Baltimore — General Jackson seizes Pensacola — Battlo 
of New Oi-leans — Hartford Convention — The frigate President 
captured — Treaty of peace — More naval engagements — War 
with Algiers — Treaty — Bank of the United States — Indiana 
admitted — Mr. Monroe elected ..... 156 

James Monroe's Administration. — President's tour — Mississippi 
admitted — Seminole war — General Jackson captures towns in 



CONTENTS.. XI 

Florida — Illinois, Alabama, Maine, and Missouri adnaitted — 
Florida ceded to the United States — Expedition against the 
pirates — Visit of General La Fayette — John Quincy Adams 
elected President 179 

John Quincy Adams' Administration. — General La Fayette re- 
turns to France — Congress make an appropriation — Deaths of 
Adams and Jefferson — General Jackson elected President 1 84 

Andrew Jackson's Administration. — Death of James Monroe — 
Black Hawk's war — Cholera in the army — Treaties with the 
Indians — Nullification — << Compromise Bill" — Debt due by 
France remaining unpaid — Fears of a war — Amicable settle- 
ment — Seminole war — General Scott sent to Florida — "Specie 
Circular"— "Distribution Act" — Arkansas admitted — Death of 
James Madison — Michigan admitted — Martin Van Buren elected 
President 186 

Martin Van Buren's Administration. — Seizure of Osceola — 
Battle of Lake Okeechobee — Insurrection in Canada — Proclama- 
tion of neutrality — General Harrison elected President 191 

H.\rrison's and Tyler's Administrations.— The President calls 
a meeting of Congress— Death of President Harrison — John 
Tyler President — xMeeting of Congress— Settlement of the north- 
eastern boundary — Prospects of civil war in Rhode Island — 
"Suffrage Party" — "Law and Order Party"-*-Troops sent to 
preserve the peace— Bursting of the "Peacemaker" — Death of 
Mr. Upshur and Mr. Gilmore — x4nnexation of Texas — Admission 
of Florida 193 

James K. Polk's Administration.— General Taylor sent to Texaa 
with an army — Death of General Jackson — Admission of Texas — 
Oregon — Boundary line — Iowa admitted — Mexican hostilities — 
Battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma— General Taylor 
takes Matamoras — Monterey — Capture of California — New 
Mexico — General Scott captures Vera Cruz — Battle of Buena 
Vista— Battles of Ccrro Gordo, Contreras, Churubusco, El Mo- 



XU CONTENTS. 

linos del Rey, Chapultepec — Occupation of the city of Mexico- 
Treaty of peace — Transfer of California and New Mexico — 
Death of John Quincy Adams — Wisconsin admitted— General 
Taylor elected President 10(1 

Taylor's and Fillmore's Administrations. — Great emigration 
to California — Application to be admitted as a state — Compro- 
mise measures — Death of the President — Succeeded by Millard 
Fillmore — California admitted — Purchase of tracts of land — 
Kossuth — Death of Henry Clay — Daniel Webster — Mission to 
Japan — Franklin Pierce elected President . . . 208 

Franklin Pierce's Administration. — Mesilla Valley claimed by 
Mexico — Conveyed to the United States by treaty — Nebraska 
and Kansas — Repeal of the Missouri Compromise — Dismissal 
of Mr. Crampton and British consuls — Civil war in Kansas — 
James Buchanan elected President . . . . 211 

Tames Buchanan's Administration. — The Mormons refuse obe- 
dience to the laws of the United States — Troops sent to Utah — 
Salt Lake City — Troops withdrawn — The President recommends 
the admission of Kansas under the Lecompton Constitution — A 
bill passes both houses, but is rejected by the people — Minne- 
sota admitted — Oregon admitted — Visit of the Japanese am- 
bassadors — Visit of the Prince of Wales — Mr. Lincoln elected 
President — Secession of South Carolina — Major Anderson evacu- 
ates Fort Moultrie — Withdrawal to Fort' Sumter — State troops 
take Fort Moultrie and Castle Pinckney — General Cass resigns — 
Messrs. Cobb, Floyd, and Thompson resign — The forts in 
Georgia, North Carolina, and Alabama seized by the secession- 
ists — Siege of Fort Sumter — Secession of five states — " Star of 
the West" — Kansas admitted — Peace Conference — Convention 
of seceding states — General Twiggs .... 213 

Abraham Lincoln's Administration. — Inauguration — List of se- 
ceded states — Fort Pickens — Bombardment of Fort Sumter — 

. The President calls for troops — Fii'st arrival of soldiers in y>'asli- 
ington — Massachusetts troops attacked in Baltimore — Pennsyl- 



CONTENTS. Xm 

vania troops— Secession of Virginia— Destruction of public build- 
ings at Harper's Ferry — Navy Yard at Portsmouth destroyed — 
Secession of Arkansas, Tennessee, and North Carolina— General 
Butler occupies Baltimore— Batteries on the Elizabeth River— 
Scwall's Point— Troops on Arlington Heights— Assassination of 
Colonel Ellsworth— Death of Stephen A. Douglas— Surprise of 
rebels at Philippi— Colonel Kelly wounded— Expedition sent 
against the rebels at Great Bethel— Failure to take a battery— 
Retreat— Death of Lieutenant Greble— Of Major Winthrop— 
Battle of Booneville— Attempt of Captain Ward to erect a battery 
at Matthias Point— Attack by the rebels— Death of CaptainWard 
—Battle of Falling Waters— Battle at Rich Mountain— Colonel 
Pegram surrenders— Battle of St. George— General Garnet t, 
killed— General McDowell at Fairfax— Centreville— Battle of 
Bull Run— Retreat of General McDowell— Colonels Cameron, 
Slocum, and Fowler killed at Bull Run— Battle at Wilson's 
Creek— Death of General Lyon— General Sigel takes command — 
P^xpedition under Commodore Stringham and General Butler — 
Capture of Forts Clark and Hatt eras— Attack on the fort at Lex- 
ington—Brave defence by Colonel Mulligan — Battle of Bolivar- 
Ball's Bluff— Death of Colonel Baker— Lexington recaptured— 
Resignation of General Scott— General McClellan appointed his 
successor — Dupont's Expedition— Capture of forts at Hilton 
Head-Beaufort- Arrest of Slidell and Mason . . 221 

Events of 1862. — Battle of Somerset— General Zollickoffer killed— 
Surrender of Fort Heni-y— Expedition against North Carolina- 
Capture of Roanoke Island— Destruction of the rebel fleet— Fort 
Donelson bombarded — Surrenders — Submission of Nashville- 
General Banks crosses the Potomac— Naval battle near Newport 
Ng^YS_The Merrimac — The Monitoi' — Commodore Dupont cap- 
tures Brunswick and Fernandina— Fort Clinch— St. Mary's — 
Battle of Pea Ridge— Evacuation of New Madrid— Siege of Island 
No. 10— Expedition against Beaufort— Surrender of St. Augus- 
tine-Battle of Pittsburgh Landing— Surrender of Fort Pulaski— 
Fort Macon — New Orleans surrenders to General Butler — Baton 
Rouge taken— Bombardment of Fort St. Philip— Fort Jackson- 
General McClellan embarks with his army— Takes possession of 



XIV CONTENTS. 

Yorktown — Battle of Williamsburg— Battle at West Poiiu — At- 
tack on Sewall's Point — General Wool's expedition to Norfolk — 
Surrender of the city — The Merrimac destroyed — Sewall's Point 
and Craney Island abandoned — Troops cross the Cbickahominy — 
Attack on Colonel Kenley — Battle at Corinth — Town evacuated — 
Occupied by General Pope — Battle of Fair Oaks — Evacuation of 
Forts Pillow, Wright, and the city of Peusacola — Fort Barrancas 
— Surrender of Memphis — General Negley defeats the enemy in 
Tennessee — Fremont pursues Jackson — Battle of Cross Keys — - 
Contest at the Shenandoah — Battle at White Oak Swamp — Battla 
of Mechanicsville — "Gaines's Mills" — Savage Station — White 
Oak Swamp — Turkey Island — McClellan's army at the James 
River — Malvern Hills — General Pope in command of the army — 
Three hundred thousand troops called into service — March of 
General Curtis — General Halleck appointed commander-in-chief 
— Death of Van Buren — Battle at the Rapidan — Cedar Mountain 
— Attack on Baton Rouge — Death of General Williams — Army 
moved from Harrison's Landing to Williamsburg— Battle of Bull 
Run — Fairfax — Centreville — Junction of armies — General Mc- 
Clellan commander — Death of Generals Kearney, Stevens, and 
Taylor — Rebel army in Maryland — Battle of South Mountain — 
Death of General Reno — Surrender of Harper's Ferry — Battla 
of Antietam — Rebel army crosses the Potomac — Pursued by 
General Pleasanton — Harper's Ferry evacuated — Bombardment 
of Natchez — Battle of luka — Capture of Mumfordsville — Inva- 
gion of Pennsylvania — Battle of Corinth — Hatchie River — Battk 
of Perry ville — General McClellan relieved — Burnside appointed 
— Galveston taken — General Burnside's army opposite Frede- 
ricksburg — Steamer Alabama — Indian massacres — Battle of 
Fredericksburg — Deaths of Generals Bayard and Jackson — 
General Burnside removes his army — Report of killed and 
wounded . 238 



HISTORY 



OF 



THE UNITED STATES. 



DISCOVERIES OF THE 15TH AND IGTH CENTURIES. 

1. The vast continents of North and South 
America were unknown to the civilized world 

previous to the year 1402. At that time the genius and 
persevering eiForts of Christopher Columbus led the way to 
tliose great discoveries, which have resulted in the settle- 
ment of the United States, and other countries in the 
\Yestern Hemisphere. 

2. The spirit of adventure was now awakened in 
1497. T^ , 

±iUrope, and numerous expeditions were sent out 

t+) make discoveries and form settlements. Among these, 
tlie voyage of the Cabots is most worthy of notice. In 
1497, John Cabot embarked with his son Sebastian, from 
Bristol, England, and discovered the American Continent 
far to the north, in the dreary inhospitable regions of 
Labrador. A second voyage was made by Sebastian Cabot 
the next year, in which he explored the American 

14198. •' ' '■ 

coast, landed at many plac<js, and returned to 
2 (13) 



14 HISTORY 01? THE UNITED STATES. 

England lie sketched maps of the places visited, and 
wrote an account of his adventures, all of which have been 
lost to posterity. 

3. The glory of the discovery of the Western Continent 
belongs to the Cabots. They reached the mainland four- 
teen months previously to the discovery by Columbus of the 
southern portion, and two years before Amerigo Vespucci 
made his voyage, and assumed honors to which he had no 
rightful claim. 

•i. Gasper Cortereal was appointed commander of an 
expedition fitted out in Portugal, and, in 1501 , 
sailed along the American coast for more than six 
hundred miles. He seized a number of the natives, carried 
them off. and sold them as slaves, but in a subsequent voyage 
fell a victim to his avarice and cruelty, being slain in a 
ttkirmlsh with the Indians. 

5. In the year 1512, Juan Ponce de Leon 
embarked at Porto Rico with a squadron of seven 

ships fitted out at his own expense, on a voyage of discovery. 
On Easter Sunday, called by the Spaniards Pascua Florida, 
land was seen and the country was named Florida, from the 
day on which it was discovered, and its blooming appearance. 

6. The Spaniards who had made preparations for 
a colony in the '^ Land of Flowers," were attacked 

by the Indians with the utmost fury, many were killed, 
the survivors compelled to flee to their ships, and Ponoe 
himself, mortally wounded, returned to Cuba to die. 

7. The French government, anxious to make 
settlements in the New World, the coasts of which 

were frequented by the hardy fishermen of Normandy and 
Rrittany, sent out John Verrazani, in a single caravel, on a 
vtyage of discovery. He came on the coast in the latitude 
if Wilmington, sailed along the shores of North Carolina, 



DISCOVERIES. 15 

Now Jersey, and New York, remained for fifteen days ia 
the harbor of Newport, and then explored the whole coast 
of New England to Nova Scotia. 

8. In 1534, James Cartier, with two ships, left 
the harbor of St. Malo in France, and in twenty 

dnys came to the island of Newfoundland. He then crossed 
the gulf, and entered a bay which he named Pes Chalcurs^. 
ile then sailed along the coast, and, entering the inlet of 
Gasp6, he took possession in the name of the French king, 
by rearing a lofty cross, with a shield and the lilies of his 
native soil. Leaving this place, he sailed np the great 
river St. Lawrence for a considerable distance, and then 
returned, after a successful voyage, to St. Malo. 

9. The following year, Cartier, with three shij><, 
set out on another voyage, and, passing to the west 

of Newfoundland and through the Gulf of St. Lawrence, 
north of Anacosti, he ascended the river as far as the island 
of Orleans. Here, Cartier, leaving his vessels safely moored, 
proceeded in a boat to the chief Indian settlement, wliich 
lay at the foot of a hill which he climbed. Pleased with 
the beauty of the surrounding prospect, he called this 
Mont Real, a name which has since extended to the most 
flourishing city of Canada East. They passed the winter in 
the St. Lawrence, and in the spring, after solemnly taking 
possession of the country, and declaring Francis to be iU 
rightful king, they returned to St. Malo. 

10. Ferdinand de Soto, one of the companions 
of Pizarro in his conquest of Peru, planned an 

expedition for the conquest of Florida, and, obtaining tho 
Spanish king's permission, embarked for that country. In 
two weeks he landed on the coast, and the march of the 
a*ivcnturers began, attended with great hardships to the 
invaders and cruelties to the natives. The following year 



16 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



they arrived at a town on the Alabama, called 

1540. "^ ' 

Mobile, which name is still retained. Here a 
bloody battle ensued, during which the town was burned 
and the Indians corapletely routed. 

11. De Soto now marched to the north, and wintered 
in the upper part of what is now the state of 
Mississippi. In the spring of 1541 the march 
was resumed, and, after suffering from fire, want of food, 
and hostility of the natives, the Spaniards came to tho 
Kreat river, often called the " Father of Waters." 



1541. 




DISCOVERY or THE MISSISSIPPI KIVER. 



12 A plan being now formed in France for a settlement 
in America, Cartier again set sail for the St. Lawrence. 
Near the site of Quebec he built a fort, where his company 

passed the winter, sullen, unhappy, and dejected. 

In June, 1542, the expedition returned to France, 
and, fc)r the next fifty years, no further discoveries were 
attempted by a nation which had become involved in the 
•lorrors of civil war and intestine feud. 



1543. 



DISCOVERIES. 17 

13. The Spaniards under De Soto still marched west- 
wardly in search of gold, but finding none, they retraced 
their blood-stained track to the Mississippi, where their 
distinguished leader died. His body was wrapped in a 
mantle, and at midnight sunk in the depths of the river, at 
once the fruit of his researches and his sepulchre. 

14. The Spaniards made some feeble attempts 

1549. ^ , . . , 

to form settlements in Florida, by sending mis- 
sionaries to convert the natives to Christianity. But the 
rude tribes they sought to convert had suffered so much 
from the cruelty of the Spaniards, that they regarded hh 
enemies the priests who sought an interview with them, 
and the peaceful missionaries became the victims of their 
fury. Florida was now abandoned, for it seemed fatal to 
all who approached its shores. The troubles in France, 
and the persecutions of the Huguenots, induced Admiral 
Coligny to seek a refuge for men whoso lives were en- 
dangered at home. 

15. An expedition fitted out under the command 
of John Ribault, a brave man, of great maritime 

experience, sailed for the American shores. After exploring 
the coast, they came to Port Royal entrance, where Ribault 
determined to plant his colony. Fort Charles or Carolina 
gave name to the country before its occupation by the 
English. In consequence of civil war in France, no aid 
vras sent to the infant colony; dissensions prevailed, and 
the commandant left by Ribault lost his life in a mutiny. 
Under the guidance of a new commander, they embarked for 
their native land in a rude vessel of their own construction. 
After suffering from the horrors of famine, they were rescued 
by an English vessel and taken to the coast of France. 

16. In 1564, another expedition under Laudon- 

1564. . ' ^ 

niere was fitted out, and settled on the banks of the 
2* 



18 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

river May (now St. John's). The following year Ribaalt 
arrived with supplies, and an additional number of 

1565. . ^^ ' 

emigrants, and there seemed to be a prospect of the 
continuance of the colony. But Spain had never relin- 
quished her claim, and it was resolved to contest the right 
of France, and to root out her colonies. An expedition, 
fitted out under Don Pedro Melendez, discovered a fine 
haven, which was named St. Augustine. Here Melendez 
landed, took possession of the continent in the name of the 
Spanish king, and laid the foundation of the town, which 
is the oldest settlement in the United States. 

17. By a furious assault he captured the French fort, 
and massacred the inmates without regard to age or sex. 
The French government took no measures to avenge their 
jslaughtered colonists. But Dominic de Gourges, a man 
of wealth, fitted out an expedition at his own expense, 
embarked for Florida, captured the Spanish fort, and 
hanged the garrison, whom he designated '^ Traitors, 
robbers, and murderers." But being too weak to retain 
possession of the country, he embarked for France, and 
Spain still claimed Florida, and all the country bounded by 
the Gulf of Mexico. 

18. No attempts to form settlements in America were 
Kuccessful for many years after the fiiilure of Cohgny. In 
the reign of Elizabeth of England, Sir Humphrey Gilbert 
formed plans for colonization. Having obtained a liberal 

patent from the queen, he equipped a squadron, 
and sailed for Newfoundland. Having entered 
the harbor of St. John's, he took possession in the name 
of his sovereign. He sailed thence on further disco veriey, 
when his largest ship was wrecked, and it became necessary 
for him to return to England. On the homeward voyage 
his fleet encountered severe storms, and the httle frigate, 



DISCOVERIES. 19 

with the admiral, disappeared in the darkness of the night. 
and all on board perished. 

19. The ill success of this expedition did not discourage 
Sir Walter Kaleidi, the step-brother of Gilbert, and 

1584r. a 7 r ^ ' 

he resolved to renew the enterprise. Obtaining a 
patent from the queen, he sent out two vessels, under the 
command of Philip Amidas and Arthur Barlow. They 
explored the coasts of Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds, 
landed on Roanoke Island, and after a short stay returned 
to England. The queen was so much pleased with the 
description of the voyage, that she named the country 
Virginia, in token of its discovery during the reign of a 
virgin queen. 

20. An expedition was now fitted out, composed 
of seven vessels, and one hundred colonists. Ralph 

Lane went out as governor of the infant colony, and Sir 
Jlichard Grenville had command of the fleet. The settle- 
ment was made on the island of Roanoke, which possessed 
a fine soil, and fertile climate, but distigrcement with the 
natives, and longings for home, led to a precipitate deser- 
tion, and Lane and his surviving associates were taken to 
England by Sir Francis Drake, in the year follow- 
ing. Two weeks afterwards. Sir Richard Grenville 
arrived with additions to the colony, and supplies for the 
settlers, and left fifteen men to retain possession. 

21. Ralei<rh now sent out another colony, emi- 

1 5 8T 

grants with their wives and families, and appointed 
John White governor. All whom Grenville left had 
perished, and the fort was in ruins. The governor was 
urged to return to England for reinforcc.nents and supplies. 
On his arrival, he found the country at war with Spain, 
and alarmed with a threatened invasion. The poor colo- 
nists were neglected until too late. When Governor White 



20 HISTORY OF THE VNITED STATES. 

returned, no trace of tliem could be found, and their fiite 
has never been known. 



Questions on the discoveries of the Ibth and IGiA centuries. — 1. Wh-i 
•was the discoverer of America, and in what year ? 

2. Describe the voyage of John Cabot. Of Sebastian Cabot. 

3. Who were the actual discoverers of the American continent ? 

4. What is said of the voyage of Cortereal? What wrong did 
he commit ? What was his fate ? 

5. What country was discovered by Juan Ponce de Leon, and 
in what year ? Why was it named Florida ? 

6. What prevented the Spaniards making a settlement ? What 
is said of their leader ? 

7. By whom were the coasts of the New World often visited ? 
Whom did the French government send to make discoveries? 
Describe the voyage of Verrazani, and name the places visited by 
him. 

8. From what port did Cartier sail, and what island did he 
arrive at ? What gulf did he cross, and what bay did he name 1 
Into what inlet did he enter? How did he take possession of tlie 
country ? Up what river did he sail ? 

9. Describe Cartier's second voyage. Where did he leave his 
vessels, and where did he proceed in a boat? What did he name 
the mountain ? Where did the crews pass the winter, and in 
whose name did they take possession of the country ? 

10. What plan was formed by Ferdinand de Soto ? What at- 
tended the course of the adventurers? At what town did they 
arrive in 1540 ? What took place ? 

11. What did de Soto now do? What discovery did de Soto'g 
company make in 1541 ? What is the river they discovered fre- 
quently called ? 

12. What did Cartier do in his third voyage? Where did his 
c'ompany pass the winter? When did the expedition return to 
France? Why did the French discontinue their expeditions to 
America ? 

13. What did the Spaniards under de Soto search for ? Why 
did they retrace their steps ? When did their leader die, and 
Vhat was done with his body ? 



DISCOVERIES. 21 

14. Who "were sent by the Spaniards to form settlements in 
Florida ? How were they treated by the natives ? Why were 
they so treated ? What led to French settlements in America ? 
Who projected these settlements? 

15. Who commanded the expedition, and at what place did they 
arrive ? What gave name to the country ? What took place in 
the infant colony? By whom were the survivors rescued? 

10. Who commanded the expedition fitted out in 15G-4? Where 
was the settlement made ? What accession was made to the settle- 
ment the year following ? Who claimed the country? Describe 
the expedition of Melendez. What town was founded by him ? 

17. How did Melendez treat the settlers? Did the French 
government avenge their death ? Who fitted" out an expedition 
against the Spaniards? What did he do to the garrison? What 
did Spain claim ? 

18. From whom did Sir Humphi-ey Gilbert obtain a patent? 
AVhere did he land ? What took place on his homeward voyage ? 

19. What did Sir Walter Raleigh do ? Who commanded the 
expedition? Where did they land? What name was given to 
the country by the queen, and why ? 

20. What attempt was made to establish a colony ? WHiy was 
the settlement deserted ? By whom were the survivors taken tD 
England ? Who arrived with supplies, and how many men did he 
leave to retain possession ? 

21. Who constituted the colony sent out in 1587 ? Who was 
appointed governor? What was tlie condition of the fort and 
settlers left by Grenville ? Why did Governor White return to 
England ? Why were not supplies sent ? When White returned 
did he find the colonists ? What became of them ? 



22 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

THE SETTLEMENTS OF THE SEVENTEENTH CENTURY. 
SETTLEMENT OF VIRGINIA. 

1. From tlie discovery of the American coutinent in 1497 
by the Cabots, no permanent settlement was established 
until the beginning of the seventeenth century. In 1602, 
Bartholomew Gosnold sailed iii a small bark from 
England, almost in a direct course across the At- 
lantic. He came to a promontory, which he named Cajxj 
Cud. " Here he and four of his men landed; and this was 
the first spot in New England ever trod by Englishmen."* 
Leaving this cape, they sailed along the coast, and entered 
Buzzard's Bay. Here on a small island they built a store- 
house and fort, and laid the foundation of a colony, which 
was soon after abandoned."!" 

2. The time had now arrived when it was deter- 
mined to establish colonics which should be perma- 
nent. Men of travel and observation urged King James to 
make the necessary grants, to confer certain privileges, and 
give encouragement to emigration. Two companies were 
formed ; the first composed of men of wealth in London, 
and the other of a similar character in the west of England. 
The London company had the right to occupy the regions 
from thirty-four to thirty-eight degrees of north latitude, 
and the western or Plymouth company from forty-one t-o 
forty-five degrees. 

3. On the 19th of December, a little squadron of three 

* Bancroft's History of the United States, Vol. T., p. 112. 

f A Frencli settlement was made in 1G05 in Nova Scotia, and 
called Port Royal, now Annapolis, and in 1608 the foundation 
of Quebec was laid, and occupied as a French colony, the country 
from Delaware Bay to the Gulf of St. Lawrence being claimed by 
the French and named Acadia. 



SETTLEMENT OF VIRGINIA. 23 

vessels, carrying one hundred and five men, commanded by 
Captain Newport, set sail for Virginia. After a long voyage, 

the fleet came to an anchor in Chesapeake Bay. 

The headlands were named Cape Charles and Cape 
Henry, from the king's sons, and a large river which they 
entered was named in honor of the king himself. The site 
fixed on for a settlement was named Jamcatowu. 

4. The first settlers of Virginia suffered greirt hardships. 
They were generally idle and improvident, enfeebled by 
divisions, and surrounded by hostile savages. Fifty perished 
before autumn. Their efficient leader, Captain John Smith, 
had been captured by the Indians, and was now a prisoner. 
His life was saved by the intercession of Pocahontas, 
daughter of the Indian king, and he was soon after libe- 
rated. On his return to Jamestown, he found the 
colony reduced to forty men, some of whom woie 

planning their escape from the settlement. 

5. During the two succeeding years, a number of new 
settlers were added to the colony, and Jamestown assumed 
the appearance of a town of civilized inhabitants. Smith 
asserted his authority, maintained order, and promoted 
industry, until an accidental explosion of gunpowder dis- 
abled him, and he was compelled, in consequence of his 

^ injuries, to return to England. The most unhappy 

consequences followed. Hostility on the part of 
the Indians, and famine, reduced the settlers to great dis- 
ti-ess, and they were on the point of deserting the colony, 
when Lord Delaware came with emigrants and supplies, 
and prevented their departure. 

0. The government of the colony was adminis- 
tered on the basis of martial law until 1619, when 
a legislative assembly was convened at Jamestown. The 
following year slavery was introduced into the colony, by 



24 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



16»0. 



the piircliase of twenty Africans brought by a Dutch 
vessel. 

7. But the colonists had no domestic ties to bind 
them to the soil. They were men who regarded 
Virginia but a temporary abode, and looked forward to the 
time when they should return to England. Few women 
had ventured to cross the Atlantic. But now the company 
.sent over ninety females, young and of good character, who 
were married to the planters, all the costs of their passage 
across the ocean being defrayed by their husbands. 




PLANTERS OBTAINING WIVES. 



8. Powhatan had been friendly with the colonists from 
his daughter's marriage. But after his death, in 1618, the 
Indians became jealous of their increase, and preconcerted 
measures to destroy them. They prepared for the attack 
with great treachery^ pretending up to the last hour the 
utmost friendship for those whose deaths they were plot> 
ting. At length, at mid-day, they fell on their unsus- 
pecting victims. 



SETTLEMENT OF VIRGINIA. 25 

9. The Eni^lish would liavc been all destroved 
had not a friendly Indian revealed the existence 
of the conspiracy, so that Jamestown and the neighbcrinp: 
settlements were guarded against an attack. The settle- 
ments on the outskirts of the colony were entirely destroyed, 
and the colony received a check from which it took years 
to recover. 

10. The London company had given offence to Kinc 
elames, which led to its dissolution, and Virginia became n 
royal province. From this time governors were appointed 
by the king. Some of these royal governors ruled without 
regard to popular right. One of them, Sir John Harvey, 
was deposed by the council, and sent to England. 
The king refused to listen to the charges against 
him, and he was reinstated. 

11. In 1644, another Indian war broke out. and 

164:4. . . ' 

the frontier settlements were laid waste. This 
outbreak was followed by a war, which terminated by the 
Indians ceding their lands to the colonists. During Crora- 
welFs administration, Virginia enjoyed the utmost freedom 
The people elected their own governors, and had an amount 
of liberty which was not interfered with during the exist- 
ence of the Commonwealth. 

12. On the restoration of the monarchy, the rights of the 
people and the freedom of commerce were disregarded 
Oppressive laws were enacted, and the struggle commenced 
between the upholders of arbitrary power, ending only with 
the Pwevolutiou, which placed all power in the hands of the 
people. 



Questions on the Settlements of the 17th cmtury. — 1. What did 
Qosnold discover and name ? What is said of his landing ? Give 
an account of his further proceedings. 
3 



26 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. "What companies Avcre formed ? What right was ccnferrod 
on the London company ? On the Western company ? 

3. Who commanded the squadron sent out, and how many colo- 
nists were there ? W^here did they anchor ? What were the capes 
named, and why? Wniat river did they name? What did tbey 
name their settlement ? 

4. What was the character of the settlers? How many died in 
four months ? Where was Captain Smith ? By whose intercession 
was his life spared ? 

5. What took place during the next two years? What did 
Smith maintain, and promote ? Why did he return to England ? 
What consequences ensued on Smith's departure ? Wlio arrived 
with supplies ? 

6. How was the government administered ? Wlien and where 
was a legislative assembly convened? How was slavery intro- 
duced, and when ? 

7. How did the colonists of Virginia obtain wives ? 

8. How long did the Indians remain on friendly terms with the 
settlers ? In what manner did they prepare for an attack ? Were 
the English taken by surprise ? 

9. What prevented the total destruction of the English ? What 
colonies were saved ? Which destroyed ? 

10. What led to the dissolution of the London company ? What, 
did Virginia become? How were governors appointed? How 
did they govern ? W' hat is said of Sir John Harvey ? 

11. What war broke out in 1644, and how did it terminate? 
What did the people enjoy and possess during the existence of Ih© 
Commonwealth ? How were the governors chosen ? 

12. What took place on the restoration of the monarchy ? 



1606. 



SETTLEMENT OF MA3SACHUS£TTS. 27 

SETTLEMENT OF MASSACHUSETTS. 

1. The Plymouth company, to whom North Vir- 
ginia had been allotted, were unsuccessful in their 

first efforts, and a ship sent out by them was captured by 
the Spaniards. The next year two ships sailed for 
America, bearing emigrants to a plantation under 
the presidency of George Popham. They landed near the 
mouth of the Kennebec, and commenced their settlement. 
A dreary winter and several disasters discouraged the colo- 
nists, and the following year they returned to England. 

2. In 1614, Captain John Smith examined the 

1614. 

coast from Penobscot to Cape Cod, and named the 
country New England. He next endeavored to establish a 
colony, but was unsuccessful. His vessel was taken by 
French pirates, from whom he escaped in an open boat, and 
arrived safely in England. 

For several years no attempt was made by the Plymouth 
company to form settlements, and the first permanent colony 
in New England was made by the Puritans, a class of men 
who, despairing of religious liberty in England, had emi- 
grated to Holland, where they lived several years in exile. 
The wilds of America offered them an asylum, and, having 
returned to England to make arrangements for their voyage, 
the first colonists departed in a vessel called the Mayflower. 
The first settlement was made on the 21st of December, 

1620, and was named Plymouth. The colonists 

16/20 

suffered from cold, sickness, and want of food, but 
they were not molested by the Indians. Massasoit, the 
<:]iiefraiu of the nearest tribe, made a treaty with them, 
which was kept unbroken for more than half a century. 

3. In 1628 a settlement was made at Salem by 

163S 

a number of emigrants led by John Endicott. 



2B HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

The towns of Boston and Charlestown were founded soon 
after their arrival, and the colony was incorporated under 
the title of the "Grovernor and Company of Massachusetts 
Bay in New England." The early settlers endured many 
hardships, but they bore their numerous afflictions cheer- 
fully, rejoicing in their freedom, and their enjoyment of 
religious liberty. 

4. Although the Puritans claimed freedom for 
themselves in matters of religion, they were unwil- 
ling to extend it to others whose faith dijQTered from their 
own, Roger Williams, a young and zealous minister, 
difiered from his brethren on this point. He held the 
doctrine that the civil magistrate should restrain crime, 
but never control opinion ; should punish guilt, but never 
violate the freedom of the soul. This doctrine was opposed, 
and Williams was banished from the colony. Much trouble 

was caused by the opposition to the opinions of the 
clergy made by Mrs. Ann Hutchinson. She wlis 
upheld by Governor Vane and Rev. John Wheelwright, 
and with the latter was compelled to leave the colony. 

5. In 1G43 the fimous union of the New Eno-land 

X64r3* 

colonies v»^as established. This confederation waa 
entered into Ibr mutual protection and security, and com- 
prised the colonies of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Plymouth, 
and New Haven. 

In 1675, a war broke out with the Indians, and 

raged with great fury. Philip, the sachem of the 
Wampanoags, was a powerful and viiiilietive enemy, and for 
a full year the colony was kept in u state of terror and 
excitement. Troops from Plymouth and Massachxisetts 
marched against the Indians, and Philip was driven from 
Mount Hope, and became a fugitive among the interior 
bribes of Ma^ssachusetts. 



SETTLEMENT OF MASSACHUSETTS. 29 

6. The Narracran setts haviuGr aided Philip, the 

1676. ° ° * ' 

English made war upon them, and troops were 
sent into their country, who destroyed their strongholds 
and burnt their wigwams. Finally the Indians were sub- 
dued, and Philip's wife and son were made prisoners. 
Heart-broken, and ready to die, he was shot by a faithless 
Indian, and his captive son sold as a slave. Thus ended 
King Philip's War, which proved fatal to the Narragansetts, 
and to the powerful tribe of which he was the chieftain. 

7. The Acts of Navigation were considered an 
invasion of the rights of the colonies, arid were 

resisted by the people of Massachusetts. This produced 

embittered feelings on both sides, and resulted in the 

forfeiture of the charter, which had been long 

168-ir. , , ' ° 

cherished with jealous watchfulness. The follow- 
ing year, James II. became king, and Sir Edmund 
Andross was appointed governor of all New Eng- 
land. He was authorized to appoint members of 
his council, and, with their consent, make laws 
and lay taxes. These laws were of the most oppressive 
character, and the colonists were in a condition little infe- 
rior t<) absolute slavery. 
^^^^ 8. But the revolution, which drove Kins: James 

168S. „ , . , 

from his throne, restored liberty to the colonies, 
and Andross was seized and imprisoned. A new chart^'i 
was granted by King William, greatly enlarging the terri- 
tory of Massachusetts. By the old charter, the freemen of 
the colony elected their governor annually; by the new 
charter, he was appointed by the king : so that he was no 
l')nger the representative of the people, but a royal agent. 
9. Durino; Kinsr William's War, the colonists 

1693. o o . ) 

suiFered greatly from the incursions of the Indians, 
who were instigated in their hostilities by the Canadians. 
3* 



30 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Several expeditions had been planned by the colonists, 
which were generally unsuccessful. The only thing worthy 
of note was the capture of Port Royal and the subjugation 
of Acadia. But the peace of Ryswick caused for 
a time a suspension of hostilities, destined, however, 
soon to be renewed, in consequence of the conflicting claims 
of France and England, to which we shall again revert in 
Ihe progress of this history. 

Questions on the Settlement of Massachusetts. — 1. What is said of 
the first attempt of the Plymouth company to form a settlement ? 
Give an account of the settlement on the Kennebec. 

2. What service was performed by Captain Smith in 1614? 
What did he name the country ? Did Captain Smith or the 
Plymouth company establish colonies? By whom was the first 
permanent settlement made ? When and where was it established ? 
What is said of the Indians ? Of Massasoit ? 

3. When and by whom was a settlement made at Salem ? What 
towns were founded soon after? What was the title of the colony ? 

4. What doctrine was held by Roger Williams? Why was 
Roger Williams banished? Who opposed the opinions of the 
clergy ? By whom was she upheld ? What were Mr. Wheelwright 
and she compelled to do ? 

5. What colonies united in a league in 1643 ? What is said of 
Philip ? What troops marched against the Indians ? 

6. On what tribe did the English make war? What became 
)f Philip ? To whom did this war prove fatal ? 

7. How were the Acts of Navigation considered by the people ? 
[n what did their opposition result ? Who became king in 1685 ? 
Who was appointed governor ? What was he authorized to do ? 
What was the character of his laws ? 

8. What became of Andross in the revolution which drove King 
James from his throne? Who granted a new charter? Wliu 
appointed the governor by the new charter? How was he 
appointed under the old charter ? 

9. By whom were the Indians instigated to make war on Hk* 
colonists ? What place was captured and what country subjugated 1 



\ 



SETTLEMENT OF NEW YORK. 31 

SETTLEMENT OF NEW YORK. 

1. While the London and the Plymouth companies were 
laying the foundations of empire in tlie Western World, the 
Dutch were not idle. A powerful corporation, the Dutch 
East India Company, employed Henry Hudson, an enter- 
prising navigator, to make discoveries. In 1G09, 
he sailed up the river which now bears his name, 

in consequence of which the Dutch claimed the territory. 

2. The year succeeding this discovery, several merchants 
of Amsterdam fitted out a ship with merchandise, to trafiic 

with the natives. In 1G13, there were three or 

1613. ' 

four rude hovels on the island of Manhattan, and 
this was the commencement of that great city which now 
counts its inhabitants by hundreds of thousands. The 

followinoj year a rude fort was erected on the 

1614. . 

southern point of the island. In 1615 a Settle- 
ment was commenced on an island just below the present 
city of Albany. 

3. The country from the Delaware, or South* 

River, to Cape Cod, was called New Netherlands, 

and the settlement of Manhattan now began to rise into 

some degree of importance. But the colony did 

not enjoy uninterrupted prosperity. Their limits 

were narrowed on the east by the English, and by the 

Swedes on the south, and they were on the brink of ruin 

from a desolating war carried on for more than two years 

by the Algonquins. At last a solemn treaty waa 

agreed upon, to the great joy of the settlers. 

Manhattan now began its career of prosperity, and afibrded 

to the persecuted of every sect a city of refuge. 

* So called by the Dutch settlers. 



32 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. But the English became too powerful to be 
resisted. The Dutch were compelled to relinquish 

their claims to the territory of Connecticut, and half of 
Long Island. A few years later, an English 
squadron, under the direction of Colonel Richard 
Nicholls, approached the town, and demanded an acknow- 
ledgment of English sovereignty, promising the inhabitants 
security in life, liberty, and property. Resistance was 
useless, and New Netherlands became an English province. 
Manhattan was now known as New York, and Fort Orange 
was called Albany. 

5. In the next war between England and Hol- 
land, a small Dutch squadron approached New 

York, and the city at once surrendered, without opposition. 

After a military occupation of fifteen months, the territory 

wa3 transferred to England, and the Duke of York resumed 

possession. Sir Edmund Andross now assumed 

1676* 

the government, and ruled with despotic sway. 

He discouraged popular assemblies, and levied taxes without 

consent of the people. The duke, in consequence of the 
representations made to him by WiUiam Penn, 
sent instructions to the governor to convoke a 

legislature. This assembly met in 1G83, and established 

the " Charter of Liberties." 

6. Kin^r James II., on his accession to the 

1685. ° 

throne, refused to continue the concessions he 
had previously granted while Duke of York. Andross 
continued his oppressive rule in New York until the revo- 
lution in England, which drove James from hia 
throne, divested this petty tyrant of his delegated 
power, and sent him, a prisoner, to England. 

7. The peace of the colony was endangered by the hostile 
incursions of the French and their Indian allies, during 



SETTLEMENT OF NEW YORK. 33 

Kiuor William's War, wliich commcuccd in 1689, 

1669. . . 

and continued until the peace of Ryswick, in 
1697. From this time to the Revolution, New 

1 607 

York was a provincial government, under governors 
appointed by the English government. Among those most 
worthy of note, we find the Earl of Bellamont, an Irish 
peer, who had a kind heart, and sympathized with the 
efforts for popular freedom. His administration was the 
era of harmony and kind feeling. 

8. He was succeeded by the infamous Lord Cornbiiry, 
who endeavored to rule without regard to popular right or 
religious toleration. But all his attempts, as well as those 
of his successors who disregarded the just principles of 
government, were promptly met by the legislative assembly, 
who were ever watchful in resisting the encroachments 
of tyranny. 

Questions on the Settlement of New York. — 1. By whom was Henry 
Hudson employed to make discoveries ? What river did he dis- 
cover and name ? Why did the Dutch claim the territory on the 
Hudson River ? 

2. What was the extent of the settlement on Manhattan Island 
in 1613? What great city occupies the same island? What 
settlement was made in 1G15? 

3. What was the extent of the Newv Netherlands ? Who en- 
croached on their territory ? With whom were they at war ? 
What is said of Manhattan ? 

4. What were the Dutch compelled to relinquish ? When did 
New Netherlands become an English province ? What was Man- 
hattan now called ? Fort Orange ? 

5. Did New York again fall into the hands ot the Dutch ? 
What nations were at war ? How long was it retained ? To 
whom was the territory then transferred? Who took possession, 
and who was governor ? How did he rule ? When was a legisla- 
ture convoked ? What did they establish? 



34 HISTORY Off THE UNITED STATES. 

6. What did King James refuse to do on his accession to the 
throne ? What became of Andross after King James was driven 
from the throne ? 

7. How long did King William's War continue ? Who invaded 
the colony during that war? What is said of Lord Bellamont'g 
administration ? 

8. By whom was he succeeded? How did Lord Cornbury 
endeavor to rule ? Against what were the legislative assembly 
watchful? 



SETTLEMENT OF NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

1. The country now constituting tlie state of New Hamp- 
shire was granted to Sir Ferdinand Gorges and John Mason^ 

members of the Plymouth company, and in 1623 a 
company of English merchants established perma- 
nent settlements on the Piscataqua River. Dover and 
Portsmouth are the oldest towns in the state. These, for 
several years, were unimportant fishing stations. 

2. The Rev. Mr. Wheelwright, who had been banished 
from Massachusetts for favoring the religious opinions of 

Ann Hutchinson, went to the head waters of the 

163T* 

Piscataqua, and founded the town of Exeter, a 
little republic in the " vast wilderness," organized with a 
recognition of the principles of natural justice and religious 
toleration. 

8. In 1641 New Hampshire was annexed to 

Massachusetts. But the people not being Puri- 
tans, a different code of laws was adopted for their go- 
vernment, and the freemen of New Hampshire were not 
required to be church members. In 1679, New Hamp- 
shire was separated from Massachusetts, and became a 
royal province. The next year a general assembly was 



SETTLEMENT OP NEW HAMPSHIRE. 35 

convened at Portsmouth, and asserted its rights by a 

solemn decree, which was totally disregarded by the 

English government. Edward Cranfield, an avari- 
1680. . 7 . , 

cious and tyrannical man, was appointed governor. 

His whole administration is distinguished by efforts to 

extort money from the people which their representativea 

refused to grant, and the sturdy yeomanry resisted aI^ 

attempts to collect the illegal taxes which the governoi 

had levied. 

4. In 1690, the inhabitants, in convention. 

1690. ' , ' ♦ 

resolved to unite with Massachusetts, but th« 
English government refused to grant any charter to Ne\T 
Hampshire. Samuel Allen, of London, purchased Mason's 
claims to the soil, and received the royal commission to act 
ns governor. 

5. From this time, for a quarter of a century, the civil 
history of the colony is nothing but a series of lawsuits 
about hind. Complaints were made against th« 
govcrm^s, till New Hampshire and Massachusetta 
were both placed under the government of Bellamont, of 
New York. Finally, the yeomanry of the province gained 
quiet possession of the lands which their labor had redeemed 
from the wilderness. 

G. The colony suffered greatly from Indian depredations 
During King William's War, Dover was sacked and burned, 
and many of the inhabitants were killed or carried as 
captives to Canada. 

Questions on the Settlement of New Ilampshire. — 1. To whom waj 
New Hampshire granted? What Bcttlements were first estab- 
lished ? In what year ? Which are the oldest towns in the stale T 

2, Why had Rev. Mr. Wheelwright been banished from Masga- 
chusetts ? What town did he found ? What principles did L« 
recognise ? 



36 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. When was New Hampshire annexed to Massachusetts ? Why 
was a different code of laws adopted for their government ? When 
was New Hampshire separated from Massachusetts, and what did 
it become ? What did the assembly which met at Portsmouth 
assert ? Who was appointed governor ? What did he make efforts 
to do, and how was he met? 

4. What did the inhabitants resolve to do in 1690? What was 
refused by the English government ? 

5. Under what governor was New Hampshire placed in 1699 ? 

6. From what did the colony suffer ? What town was burned ? 



SETTLEMENT OF NEW JERSEY. 

1. The Dutcli, who occupied New York, claimed also 
uhe territory between the Hudson, or North River, to the 
Delaware, or South River, including the present state of 
New Jersey. These dominions were called by them New 

Netherlands. The southern cape of New Jersey 

X633 

was visited by Cornelius May, who named this 
point of land, and, ascending the river, built Fort Nassau, 
on Big Timber Creek, six miles south of Camden. 

2. The settlement of the eastern part of this state w 
involved in some obscurity. There seems to have been a 
trading station at Bergen as early as 1618, established by 

the Dutch. In 1651, Augustine Herman pur- 
chased the land from Newark Bay to the west of 
Elizabethtown, and in 1058 other purchasers ob- 
tained the large grant called Bergen, and the 
early station became a permanent settlement. 

3. The Duke of York had, a short time previously 

to the conquest of the New Netherlands, assigned 

to Lord Berkley and Sir George Carteret the land between 

the Hudson and Delaware. In honor of Carteret, who hai 



SETTLEMENT OF NEW JERSEY. 87 

been governor of the island of Jersey, the province. waa 
called New Jersey, and the capital, being a cluster 
of four houses, was named Elizabcthtown, in honor 
of Lady Carteret. Philip Carteret; brother of the proprietor, 
was appointed governor. 
4. The province increased in numbers, and nothing 
disturbed its prosperity till 1670, when payment 
of quit-rents on the settlers' lands was demanded. 
This they resisted, asserting that, as they had bought their 
lands of the Indians, no payment of rent was justly due. 
While these difficulties were pending, the disaffected colo- 
nists sent deputies to an assembly which was 
held at Elizabcthtown. That body displaced the 
i^ovemor, and appointed a young and frivolous man, his 
nephew, James Carteret, to succeed him. Philip Carteret 
hastened to England, and the colonists remained in undis- 
turbed possession of their farms.* 

5. In 1674, Berkley and Carteret were reinstated 
in possession of their province, but Lord Berkley, 

dissatisfied with his share, sold it for a thousand pounds to 
John Fenwick, in trust for Edward Byllinge. The next 
year, Fenwick, with a large company, set sail for the newly- 
purchased lands. Ascending the Delaware River, 
he landed on a pleasant, fertile spot, which he 
named Salem. But Byllinge was in embarrassed circum- 
stances, and could not retain his share of the province. 
It was accordingly sold to the Friends, or Quakers, 
who wished to establish a government where all 
men should be free from oppression. 

6. This portion was called West New Jersey, 
and the part retained by Carteret, East New 

* Bancroft's History of the United States, Vol. II., p. 819. 
4 



S8 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

Jersey. In 1682, William Penn, with eleven 
other Friends, purchased East New Jersey of th<! 
trustees of Carteret, and appointed Robert Barclay governor. 
In consequence of persecution in Scotland, larg« 
numbers of Presbyterians emigrated to East Jersey. 
7. In 1688, the proprietaries both of East and 
' . * "West Jersey surrendered their claims to govern- 
ment, and the province was ruled for a short time by tLa 
tyrannical Andross. At the Revolution, the sovereignty 
merged in the crown, and for three years East New Jersey 
had no government whatever, while in West New Jersey 
tlie authority of the deputy governor was rejected by tlio 
people. Finally, the proprietors resigned all their 
claims, and the two Jerseys became united, and 
thenceforth became a royal province, the first governor 
being Edward Hyde, Lord Cornbury. But finally, New 
Jersey obtained a governor appointed by the king, 
and whose administration was entirely distinct from 
the adjoining province of New York. Lewis Morris was 
the first governor so appointed. 

Questions on the Settlement of Hew Jersey. — 1. Who claimed Nexr 
New Jersey? By whom was the southern oftpe of New Jerser 
Tisited ? Where did he build Fort Nassau ? In what year ? 

2. In what year was there a trading station at Bergen ? Dj 
whom was Bergen settled, and in what year ? 

3. To wliom did the Duke of York convey the territory between 
tiie Hudson and Delaware ? Why was it called New Jersey ? 
What was the capital, and whence did it derive its name? Who 
was governor ? 

4. Why did the people refuse quitrrcnta on their lands ? 

5. To whom did Lord Berkley sell bis share ? Where did Pea- 
wick with a colony settle, and in what year? To whom did 
Byllinge sell his share of the province ? 

6. What was this portion of tke proviace called ? What wat 



SETTLEMENT Of MARYLAND. 3S 

Carteret's share called ? Who purchased East New Jersey ? Wh« 
was made governor ? 

7. What did the proprietors do ia 1G88? When were the two 
Jerseys united, and who was the first governor? In what year 
did New Jersey obtain a governor solely for that province ? Who 
was the first governor so appointed? 



SETTLEMENT OP MARYLAND. 
1. The limits of Viro;inia, by its second charter, 

1600. . . . 

included all the soil which afterwards became the 
*tate of Maryland. The head of the Chesapeake waa 
i>xplored, and the settlements in Accomac were extended, 
and commerce was begun with the Indian tribes. A 

trading]: settlement seems to have been established 

16^1. 

on the river Patuxent, whose object was to carrj 
on the fur trade with the Indians. 

2. An attempt was made to obtain a monopoly of this 
commerce, by William Clayborne, a surveyor in 
the employ of the London company. Establish- 
ments were formed on Kent Island, and also near the 
mouth of the Susquehanna. The same year. Sir George 
(lalvert, Lord Baltimore, obtained a charter fur the province, 
which wius named Maryland, in honor of the queen, Hen- 
rietta Maria. Before the patent passed the great seal, Sir 
< reorge Calvert died, and his son Cecilius succeeded to hia 
lionors and his fortunes. 
?>. Leonard Calvert, brother of the proprietor, with about 
two hundred emigrants, sailed up the St. Maiya, 
some distance above its junction with the Potomac, 
where he purchased an Indian village of the natives, who 
removed and gave the settlers full possession. In the 



40 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

humble village of St. Mary's religious liberty found a 
peaceful borne. 

4. The settlers of Maryland escaped tbe want, the priva- 
tion, and tbe bardsbip endured by many of tbe colonies, 
and its advance was proportionally rapid. In six montbs 
it had made more progress than Virginia had in six years. 
Under tbe mild institutions of Lord Baltimore, the descii 
wilderness bloomed with new settlements, and the Catholic-^, 
who had been oppressed by the laws of England, here 
found a peaceful asylum, and all religious sects were shel- 
tered from persecution. 

5- Nothing impaired the happiness of the colony but the 
conduct of William Clayborne. He refused to 

1635. , "^ 

submit to Lord Baltimore, and resolved to maintain 
his possessions by force of arms. In a skirmish which 
ensued, Clayborne's men were defeated. The colonial 
assembly passed an act of attainder against Clay- 
borne, and his estates were seized and forfeited. 
6. The Indians, alarmed at the rapid increase of the 
settlers, now commenced hostilities, and carried on 
a frontier war, which continued till 1644, when 
peace was established, and made durable by prudent legis- 
lation and firm humanity. But peace was of short con- 
tinuance in the colony, for the restless Clayborne 
excited a rebellion. The insurgents were at first 
successful, and compelled the governor to fly, and for a year 
held a dominion distinguished for disorder and misrule. 

7. In 1652, during the Commonwealth, the 

government was taken from Lord Baltimore, and 

placed in other hands, and for several years there was a 

constant struggle for the supremacy. Finally, a 

compromise was effected between the contending 

parties, and government was surrendered to the agent of the 



SETTLEMENT OF MARYLAND. 41 

proprietary. At the restoration of monarchy, tlie 
authority of Philip Calvert was fully recognised. 

8. The claims of the proprietor were acknowledged from 

this time until his death, which took place in 1676. 

Cecilius Calvert, Lord Baltimore, the founder and 
the father of Maryland, devoted more than forty years of 
his life to promote the happiness of the colonists, to protect 
the rights of conscience, and to establish, on the broadest 
platform, the principles of religious liberty. His struggles 
and success iu establishing these principles, enrol his name 
among the great and wise benefactors of the human race, 
in all ages and iu every clime. 

9. On the death of Cecilius, his son Charles succeeded 
to his title and estate. He had been governor of the colony 
for fourteen years, and had ruled with wisdom and modera- 
tion. He was now obliged to return to England, and during 

1689 ^^^ absence discontents arose, and his deputies 
were deposed from oflBice. 

10. King William now constituted Maryland a royal 

province, and the church of England was by law 
established as the state religion, to be supported 
by general taxation. St. Mary's ceased to be the capital, 
and Annapolis hereafter became the seat of government. 
The government continued to be a royal province till 1715, 
when it was restored to the proprietor, in whose family it 
remained till the Revolution. 

Questions on the Settlement of Maryland.— \. Where was the lirht 
settlement in Marjdand ? In what year ? What was its object ? 

2. Where did William Clayborne form settlements? In what 
year did Lord Baltimore obtain a charter for the province ? AVhy 
was it named Maryland ? 

3. When and where did Lord Baltimore establish his colony? 
Who conducted the emigrants to their new home? What did 

4* 



42 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Leonard Calvert purchase from the Indians ? What name Tf as 
given to the settlement ? 

4. How does the settlement of Maryland compare with the 
settlement of Virginia ? What is said of religious toleration ? 

5. What disturbed the happiness of the colony? What did 
Clayborne resolve to do ? What occurred in a skirmish ? 

G. What did the Indians do in 1642 ? How long did the war 
continue? Who excited a rebellion in 1645 ? 

7. From whom was the government taken in 1652? For what 
was there a constant struggle ? How was the question settled ? 
Whose authority was acknowledged at the Restoration ? 

8. When did Lord Baltimore die ? What is said of his char- 
acter ? 

9. Who succeeded Lord Baltimore ? How long had he been 
governor, and what is said of his rule ? 

10. What was Maryland constituted during the reign of King 
William? What was established as the state religion? What 
became the capital ? When was the government restored to the 
proprietor, and how long did it remain in his family ? 



SETTLEMENT OF DELAWARE. 

1. The first settlement in Delaware was made by tba 
Dutch. A company was formed to make a settlement, and 

one of their number purchased the land extending 
from Cape Henlopen for more than thirty miles, 
and comprising the soil of the two lower counties. 

2. This tract of land was soon after colonized. De Vries, 

the conductor of the expedition, planted a colony 
of more than thirty persons, near the present town 
of Lewes. After a year's residence, De Vries returned to 
Holland. After his departure, the settlers became embroiled 
with the Indians, who prepared an ambush, and murdered 
.^?ery one of the emigrants. 



SETTLEMENT OP DELAWARE. 43- 

3. Several years elapsed before any further attempts were 
made to form settlements. The Swedes now determined to 
establish a colony, and, availing themselves of the experience 
of Peter Minuits, who had been governor at Manhattan, 

they fitted out an expedition, which arrived in the 
Delaware Bay. They purchased the land extending 
from Paradise Point, or Cape Henlopen, to the falls in the 
river Delaware, near Trenton. Their first settlement was 
near the mouth of Christiana Creek, at Fort Christiana, so 
named from the queen of Sweden. 

4. A large number of Swedes and Finns emigrated to 

the new settlement. Their plantations were ex- 

1643. ^. 

tended, and the governor established his residence 
on the island of Tinicum, a few miles below Philadelphia. 
Here a fort was built, and houses soon began to cluster 
around it. 

5. But the Dutch, who had long looked with jealous 

eyes on the Swedish settlements, sent a party who 
built Fort Casimir, on the site of New Castle. The 
Swedes considered this an encroachment on their right,*?. 
and Rising, the Swedish governor, availing himself of 
stratagem, obtained possession of the fort. The Dutch 
governor soon after sailed with a force of six hundred men 
into the Delaware, for the purpose of conquest. Resistance 
was useless, and the Swedes were compelled to surrender 
their only colony, after seventeen years' possession. 

6. From this time until the Dutch were subdued 

1656. 

by the English, Delaware was governed by deputie.«! 
appointed by Stuyvesant. After the conquest of the Dutch, 
Delaware became a dependency of New York. It 
was afterwards conveyed by the Duke of York to 
William Penn, who landed at New Castle on the 
27th day of October, 1682. 



44 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

7. In the course of a few years the " territories" of 
Delaware wished for a government independent of Penn- 
sylvania. Their request was acceded to by William 
Penn, and the lower counties became a separate 
eolony, under Colonel Markham. But Fletcher, who 
assumed the control, once more united Delaware 

1693. _ , . ', , 

to FeuDsylvania. vVnen the government was re- 
stored to Penn, Delaware still continued to send delegates 
to the Assembly. But in 1702, Pennsylvania 
convened its separate legislature, and the two 
colonies were never again united. 

Questions on the Settlement of Delaware. — 1, Bj -whom was the 
first settlement made in Delaware ? What was the extent of the 
purchase made in 1629? 

2. Where was the first settlement made, and by whom ? What 
took place when De Vries returned to Holland ? 

3. When did the Swedes make a settlement? What was the 
extent of their purchase ? Where was their first settlement ? 

4. Where did the governor establish his residence ? What was 
built on this island ? 

5. What was built by the Dutch at New Castle ? How did the 
Swedes view the building of the fort? How did the Swedish 
governor gain possession ? What did the Dutch governor do ? 
What was the result ? 

G. After the conquest of the Dutch what did Delaware become ? 
To whom was it conveyed by the Duke of York? When did 
William Penn land at New Castle ? 

7. What did the "territories" of Delaware wish for? Who 
acceded to their request, and who became governor ? When was 
Delaware reunited to Pennsylvania? When were the colonies 
finally separated ? 



SETTLEMENT OP CONNECTICUT. 45 



SETTLEMENT OF CONNECTICUT. 

1. The Dutch were tlie first to discover and occupy the 
banks of the Connecticut. The soil around Hartford was 

purchased from the natives, and a fort erected on 
land within the present limits of that city. The 
territory had been previously granted to the Earl of War- 
wick ; it was afterwards held by Lord Say and Seal, Lord 
Brooke and others, as his assigns. 

2. A few months after the erection of the Dutch fort, 
the people of New Plymouth built a trading-house at 
Windsor, and carried on a fur trade with the Indians. 

Soon after, Mr. Winthrop returned from England. 

1635. . ' . . ^, to 

with a commission to build a fort at the mouth 
of the Connecticut. Previously to his arrival, settlements 
had been commenced by emigrants from the environs of 
Boston, at Windsor and Weathersfield. 

3. In the Slimmer following, Rev. Thomas Hooker, and 

a large company, left Massachusetts, and, aftei 

a toilsome journey through the forest, laid the 

foundation of Hartford, on the " delightful banks" of the 

Connecticut. At the time of this settlement, the 

1631. ' 

Pequod Indians were numerous and hostile, and 
the colonies were compelled to make war against them. 
This war terminated in the complete overthrow of the 
Pequods, and the de.slruction of tlic tribe. 

4. The follow inor year, Rev. John Davenport 

1638. s J ) t 

and Theophilus Eaton founded a colony at New 
Haven. After a day of fasting and prayer, they rested 
their frame of government on a covenant that " all of them 
would be ordered by the rules which the Scriptures held 



46 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

forth to them." In 1639, the free planters of the 
colony met in a barn, and agreed upon a code of 

laws, and appointed seven persons, in whom the governmenk 

of the colony was invested. 

5. The increasing numbers of the English completely 

surrounded the Dutch fort, and overwhelmed the 

1650* 

feeble settlement which they had planted. Governor 
Stuyvesant therefore went to Hartford, and concluded a 
treaty, by which New Netherlands extended to the state 
line, and the eastern part of Long Island waa ceded to 
Connecticut. 

6. The colony on the Connecticut promptly acknowledged 

the claim of Charles II., on his restoration to the 

1662. 

throne of his fathers, and sent John Winthrop the 
younger to obtain a charter from the king. A charter wiw 
readily granted, and, connecting New Haven with Hartford 
in the colony, it was extended from Narragansett River lo 
the Pacific Ocean ! 

7. The union of the two colonies was not, however, 
1664 ininiediately effected. New Haven was unwilling 

to become merged in the larger colony of Hartford, 
but the wise counsels of Winthrop finally prevailed, and the 
two colonies became united, and continued for many years 
prosperous, and in full enjoyment of their political and 
religious liberties. 

8. When New Netherlands was surrendered to the English, 
and the Duke of York obtained its possession, Androes 

proceeded with armed sloops to Connecticut, and 
endeavored to obtain possession of the fort at Say* 
brook. But he was overawed by the firmness of the colonial 
ti-oops, and obliged to desist. On the accession of James II. 
to the crown, Andross was sent to govern the colony, and 
lemand the surrender of the charter. Earnest pleadings 



SETTLEMENT OP CONNECTICUT. 4T 

were made against the demand, and the discussion 
was prolonged till nightfall. The charter lay on 
the table. On a sudden, the lights were extinguished, and 
Joseph Wadsworth, availing himself of the darkness, seized 
the charter, and concealed it in the hollow of an oak. which 
was older than the colony, and long Burvived it, under the 
renerated name of the Charter Oak. 

9. Andross now ruled with absolute power till the llevo- 

lution, which drove his master from the throne, 

1600. ' . . . . ' 

and threw him into a prison. The discolored 
charter was then taken from its hiding-place, an assembly 
oonvened, and Connecticut resumed her freedom. But th<? 

Eup-lish crown having claimed the command of thf 

1699. ... ^ 

militia, conferred the office on the governor of 
New York, and directed him to assume the duties of that 
office. 

10. In pursuance of his instructions, Fletcher went to 
Hartford, and ordered the militia to assemble on 

1693. ' 

the parade ground. He then appeared at the 
head of the line, and ordered Bayard, of New York, to 
read his commission. Captain Wadsworth, who claimed 
the command, ordered the drums to beat some of the old 
marches well known to veterans. Fletcher commanded 
gilence, and said : " I will not set my foot out of this 
c<jlony, till I have seen his majesty's commission obeyed.'^ 
But Wadsworth was resolute, and, as the excited people 
came swarming into Hartford, Fletcher retired, and went 
back to his government in New York, and the English 
government soon after renounced its claim. 

Questions on the Settlement of Connecticut. — 1. Who first occupied 
(be banks of the Connecticut? What purchase Tvas made from 
the natives, and what was erected ? To whom had the territory 
previously been granted ? By whom was it afterwards held ? 



48 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

2. Where did the people of New Plymouth build a trading- 
house ? Where were settlements soon after made ? 

3. Describe the settlement made by Rev. Mr. Hooker. What 
tribe of Indians were hostile ? How did the war terminate ? 

4. Who founded the colony of New Haven? On what did Ihey 
rest their frame of government ? 

5. What treaty was made at Hartford by Governor Stuyvesant ^ 

6. What was granted by the charter of Charles II. ? 

7. By whose counsels were the colonies united ? 

8. What did Andross endeavor to obtain? W^hy did he desist ? 
On the accession of James II. who was sent to govern the colony, 
tiud what did he demand ? Was the charter surrendered ? What 
became of it ? What was the tree called ? 

9. How long did Andross rule ? What was done after Andross 
•Tas imprisoned? 

10. What did Governor Fletcher do? What was ordered by 
1,'aptain Wadsworth ? What was the result ? 



SETTLEMENT OF RHODE ISLAND. 

1. When Roger Williams was proscribed in Massacliusette, 

he left his home in Salem, and was, through the 
severity of an inclement winter, an inmate of the 
dense and pathless forests. Part of the time he was a 
guest with Massasoit and other friendly Indians. 

2. Next June, with five companions, he embarked on 
Narragansett Bay, in a frail Indian canoe, and gave to his 
landing-place the name of Providence, to express his trust 
in the mercy of the Divine Being. In the course of two 

1638 y^^^^} ^^ ^^^ joined by others who fled from perse- 
cution to his asylum. The tract of land comprising 
Providence Plantation was conveyed to him by a deed from 
the chieftain of the Narragaasetts. 



SETTLEMENT OF RHODE ISLAND. 49 

3. The friends of Ann Hutchinson, who had been ban- 
ished from Massachusetts, led by John Clarke and William 
Coddington, were welcomed by Roger Williams, and th<; 
chief of the Narragansett3 made them a gift of a beautiful 
island. Here they laid the foundation of Portsmouth, 
and the following year they commenced the settlement 
of Newport. 

4. The new colony'^ was excluded from the union of 

the New Enorland colonies, and was obliged to 

104:3, o ^ o 

appeal to the mother country for protection.- 
Roger Williams, therefore, went to England, and obtained. 

from the Parliament a free and absolute charter. 

'^with full power and authority to govern and rule 
themselves.'' 

6. When Roger Williams had obtained from the Par- 
liament the confirmed union of the territories which 

now constitut-e the stato, he left John Clarke in 

England, as the agent of the colony. On the 
restoration of Charles II., a charter of unexampled libe- 
rality was granted to the colony, which embraced all the 
principles of civil and religious liberty for which it 
bad contended. This charter continued to be the state 
constitution until 1842, with the exception of a short 
period, when the tyranny of Andross established his own 
arbitrary rule. 

6. The colony of Rhode Island was an asylum for the 
persecuted of every sect and clime. The benevolent 
principles of its founder were fully carried out, and, fivored 
by its wise and beneficent charter, it grew and flourished, 
and though the smallest in extent of territory among tho 

* The colony was originally called '-Khodo Island and Provi 
5 



50 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

states of our Federal Union, it stands among the foremost 
for the benevolence and wisdom of its institutions. 

Questions on the Settlement of Rhode Island. — 1. "What did Roger 
Williams do, when proscribed in Massachusetts ? 

2. What did he do in June, 1636? What did he name hi* 
landing-place ? Why did he call it Providence ? Wlio conveyed 
the land to him ? 

3. What towns were settled by the banished followers of Ann 
Hutchinson ? Who presented them with the island which give* 
name to the state ? 

4. What did Roger Williams obtain from the Parliament ? 

5. What was granted by Charles II, ? How long did this 
charter constitute the state government? 

6. For what was the colony an asylum ? 



SETTLEMENT OF NORTH CAROLINA. 

1, The first attempts to form settlements in North Caro- 
lina were made by Raleigh, on the island of Roanoke, as 

related in a former part of this history. After the 
entire destruction of the second colony, no further 

attempts were made to form settlements until 1653, when a 
company was formed for the purpose of emigrating 
from Virginia. This project does not seem to havo 

succeeded, and the first settlement appears to have bc^n 

made by a party of New England men, who, in a little bark, 
had found their way into the Cape Fear River, 
purchased a tract of land from the Indian chiefs, 

and planted a town on Oidtown Creek, on the south sido 

of Cape Fear River. 

2. The overflow of population in Virginia extended into 



SETTLEMENT OP NORTH CAROLINA. 51 

North Carolina, and a few straggling families had fixed 

their abodes within its limits as early as IGGO. But the 

first reojular settlement from Vir'2riuia was made on 

1663. ° . ^ 

Albemarle Sound, in 1668. A separate government 
was established over this settlement, and William Drummond 
was appointed to be its governor. 

3. The settlement on Cape Fear River was not entirely 
abandoned, but it did not prosper. Several planters oi 

Barbadoes emio-rated to Cape Fear River, near the 

1665. ° / . 

former settlement, and laid the foundation of a' 
town, every vestige of which has long since disappeared. 
The feeble remnant of the New England colonists united 
with the new settlers, 

4. Lord Clarendon and his associates obtained from the 
king a new charter, which granted them an immense extent 
of territory, and conferred on them the most ample privi- 
leges. A constitution for the government was prepared 
by the distinguished writer and philosopher, John Locke, 
which was totally at variance with the popular wishes, and 
contrary to the genius of free institutions. It was tried, 
but never carried out, and finally abandoned as impracticable 

and useless. William Sayle was appointed governor 
by the proprietaries. 

5. The colony continued to grow, and received every year 
fresh accessions of emigrants — men who fled from persecu- 
tion, and here found an asylum. The first trouble 
was an attempt made to eniorce the navigation 

laws, which were very oppressive. This attempt hastened 
an insurrection. The people rose and imprisoned the 
deputies of the proprietaries, and organized a government 
for themselves. Culpepper, the leader of the insurrection, 
was seized, carried to England, tried by an English jury 
and acquitted. 



:&2 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. An act of amnesty was granted, and Sothel, one of the 

proprietaries, now assumed the government. His 

sole object was the acquisition of wealth, and, with 
this view, he cheated his partners, and plundjered the colo- 
nists. The people bore with his infamous exactions for 

five years, when he was deposed, and driven from 

the colony. 

7. The constitution framed by Mr. Locke having been 
practically inoperative, was now formally abrogated by the 

proprietaries. Soon after, John Archdale, a mem- 
ber of the Society of Friends, became governor, 

and the colony prospered under his wise and benevolent 

administration. 

8. A number of French, German, and Swiss families 

havinar made settlements in the vicinity of the 

1711. ^ . •' 

Roanoke Paver and Pamlico Sou;id, the Tuscaroras 
considered it an encroachment on their territory, and, 
attacking their settlements in the dead of night, set fire 
to their cabins, and murdered the unfortunate settlers. 
Relief was obtained from South Carolina. A body of 
troops from that province defeated the Tuscaroras, who fled 
to Lake Oneida, and joined the confederacy of Indians, 
making, the sixth nation in that celebrated union. From 
this time the colony enjoyed peace and prosperity. 

Questions on the Settlement of North Carolina, — 1. Where and by 
whom were the first attempts made to Ibrm settlements ? In what 
year was the first permanent settlement made ? Where and by 
whom? 

2. Where was a settlement made in 1663 ? 

3. What is said of the settlements on Cape Fear River ? 

4. What did Lord Clarendon obtain from the king ? Who pre- 
pared a constitution ? What is said of it ? Who was governor ? 

5. What brought on an insurrection ? What was done by the 
people ? / 



SETTLEMENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA. 63 

6. What act was passed? Who assumed the government? 
What was his sole object? How long did tlie people submit, and 
what did they then do ? 

7. What was done by the proprietaries ? Who became governor ? 
What is said of his administration ? 

8. What Indian war broke out ? What was the cause ? What 
became of the Tuscarora Indians ? 



SETTLEMENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA. 

1. The history of the unfortunate settlement on Port 

Koyal Entrance haa been related. Its horrors were 
1562. •'^ , , ,. ,. . 

not forgotten, and the succeeding expedition care- 
fully avoided its shores, for the more genial ones of the 
river May. The next settlement was made by the English 

proprietaries, more than a century afterwards. In 

January a number of emigrants set sail for Carolina. 
They were conducted by Joseph West and William Sayle, 
the latter of whom was appointed governor. They entered 
the harbor where Ribault had anchored, and the site where 
the Huguenots had erected the fortress of Carolina. But 
they did not settle here. After a brief sojourn, they sailed 
into Ashley River, and, on ^' the first high land,^' began 
their town, of which at this day not a vestige remains, 
except the line of a moat, intended as a defence against 
the Indians. 

2. On landing, they established a form of government, 
and refused to accept or act under the grand model of 
Locke's Constitution, which had been prepared for this 
colony, as well as for its northern neighbor. The first site 
for a town not suiting for commerce, it was deserted, and tb« 

5* 



51 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

neck of land known as Oyster Point became the 
site of a village, named in honor of the king, and 

now the opulent city and the great commercial mart of 

Charleston. 

3. African slavery was introduced in the earliest period 

of this colony, and throve, from the nature of the 
climate, much more rapidly than in the more 
northern provinces. Large numbers of emigrants came 
from different parts of Europe, and it is remarkable, that 
Carolina became an asylum for the persecuted French 
Protestants, agreeably to the design of Coligny one hundred 
years previously. 

4. Several years were spent in continued struggles 

between the proprietaries and the people. The 
former wished, and labored, to introduce the 

Constitution which had been prepared with so much care, 
and the latter absolutely refused to accept any 
of its provisions. James Colleton was appointed 

governor, but his office, his rank, and his wealth, produced 
- neither respect nor obedience. The Revolution of 

1688. ^ 

1688 brought about an absolute repeal of his 
attempts to govern, and, when William and Mary were pro- 
claimed as the sovereigns, Colleton was banished 
from the province. 

5. Seth Sothel, who had been driven from North Carolina, 

now became governor, and, the following year, the 

Huguenots were allowed all the rights of citizens iji 

the colony. But tranquillity was not restored, and anarchy 

and confusion prevailed. In 1693, the fundamentiil 

constitution was abrogated, and, the following year, 

John Archdale was appointed governor. He conciliated 

parties, established friendly relations with the neighboring 

Indians and with the Spaniards of Florida, and elicited 



SETTLEMENT OF SOUTH CAROLINA. 55 

from the freemen of the province the declaration that 
Archdalc, '' By his wisdom, patience, and labor, had laid a 
firm foundation for a most glorious superstructure/' 

6. The proprietaries, disappointed in establishing an here- 
ditary nobility, determined to establish by law the " churcli 

of England,'' and, obtaining a majority in the 

Assembly, they excluded all dissenters from any 

share in legislation or government. The dissenters appealed 

to the House of Lords, and the intolerant acts were nullified 

by royal authority. 

7. The wars of Europe involved the colonies in hostilities 
with the nations which had settled on their borders. Thus 

South Carolina became involved in war with Florida, 

and the governor headed an expedition for the 

reduction of St. Augustine. While besieging that place, 

two Spanish vessels appeared at the mouth of the harbor, 

when Governor Moore raised the siege, and retreated. He 

next marched against the Indians on the Bay of 

Apalachee, and defeated them and their Spanish 

allies, and gave to Great Britain a claim to the country now 

constituting Georgia. 

8. The next year a French squadron attempted 

an invasion of Charleston, but was repelled by the 

bravery of its inhabitants. A war broke out with the 

Yamasee tribe of Indians, by an indiscriminate massacre of 

the inhabitants of the frontier settlements. They continued 

their depredations, but were finally defeated in a 

desperate conflict on the banks of the Salkehatchio. 

9. The oppressive measures of the proprietaries, and 

their total disregard of the rights of the people, led to a 

revolution. The Assembly voted themselves a 

convention, elected James Moore governor, and 

renounced the government of the proprietaries. The latter 



65 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

forfeited their charter, and it was abrogated by the 

lords of the regency and royal authority, and 

Francis Nicholson was appointed governor. In 1729, 

North and South Carolina became distinct pro- 

vinces, and, the following year, an alliance was 

entered into with the Cherokecs. The covenant promised 

" that love should flow like the rivers, and peace endure like 

the mountains ;" and it was faithfully kept, at least for one 

generation. 

Questions on the Settlement of South Carolina. — 1. What is said 
of the first settlement at Port Royal ? How long was it before 
another was made ? What took place in 1670 ? Did they settla 
at Port Royal ? Where was the first settlement ? Does any ves- 
tige of their town remain ? 

2. What place was selected for a town in 1680? In honor of 
whom was it named ? 

3. What is said of African slavery ? For whom did South 
Carolina become an asylum ? 

4. What caused struggles between the proprietaries and the 
people ? Who was appointed governor, and what is said ci his 
authority ? 

5. Who now became governor ? What is said of the Hugui acts ? 
When was the fundamental constitution abrogated ? Repe 1 the 
declaration made respecting Governor Archdale. 

6. What form of religion did the proprietaries seek to estal \ish ? 
What did the dissenters do ? 

7. What expedition was led by the governor in 1702 ? De- crib« 
his march against the Indians. What territory was gaim i by 
this war? 

8. What did a French squadron attempt? What war took \ tice? 

9. What led to a revolution in 1715 ? After the abrogation . i tba 
charter, who became governor ? When did North and South . aro- 
liua become distinct provinces? With what tribe of Indiai jras 
a treaty made ? 



SETTLEMENT OF PENNSYLVANIA. %57 



164:3. 



164:3. 



SETTLEMENT OF PENNSYLVANU. 

1. The settlements of New Sweden, which com- 
menced near Christiana Creek, in Delaware, gradu- 
ally extended into Pennsylvania. In 1643, John 
Printz, the Swedish governor, built a handsome and 
(\>mmodious mansion on Tinicum Island, a short distanc*' 
below the mouth of the Schuylkill. The village of Upland, 
now Chester, was among the earliest settlements, and the 
southern part of Philadelphia was a Swedish village. Here, 
in the vicinity of the Navy Yard, they erected a log 
church,* several years before the arrival of the 
English colony. 

2. The name of Pennsylvania is derived from William 
Penn, a member of the Society of Quakers, or Friends. 
Sis father. Admiral Penn, is distinguished in English 
history, for the conquest of Jamaica, and as a brave and 
.jkilful naval commander. He bequeathed to his son William 
a claim on the government for sixteen thousand pounds. 
Penn applied for a grant of a territory on the west bank 
of the Delaware, and with the king, who was embarrassed 
for money, this wa.s an easy way to cancel the debt. 
' 3. Accordingly, a charter for the territory was obtained, 
and a royal proclamation soon announced to all the inhabit 
ants of the province, that William Penn, their absolut-e 
proprietary, was invested with all powers necessary for its 



* On the site of the present antiquated structure, which was 
built in 1700. 



M HISTORY or THE UNITED STATES. 

4. The proprief^ry also issued liis proclamation 
to the settlers who were occupying a small portion 

of his territory, and commissioned William Markham as 
Ills agent. Soon after, the first company of settlers left 
England, and landed, in December, in Upland, now Chcstof. 

5. By a grant of the Duke of York, the three 
lower counties (or Delaware) came under his juriii- 

diction. In the year following the arrival of the first 
emigrants, Penn himself embarked for his territory, and 
boded at New Castle, on the 27th of October, 1682. The 
(lay after his landing, he addressed the inhabitants, recom- 
mended sobriety and peace, and pledged himself to grant 
civil freedom and liberty of conscience. 



mm LAM>iNa in Philadelphia. 



6. From thence he proceeded to Chester, and, in aD 
open boat, to the site which he intended for a city. Here 
the great city of Philadelphia had its humble origin, and 
here the famous treaty with the Indians was made, and the 
promise given by the sons of the forest, that they '^ would 



SETTLEMENT OP PENNSYLVANIA. 59 

live in love with William Pcnn and his children, aa long as 
the Bun and moon should endure.'^ 

7. The first Assembly met at Chester, on the 4th 
of December, and, during a session of three days, 

enacted three laws. The next Legislative Assembly met at, 
Philadelphia, in the Friends' meetin2;-house. A 

1683. . . 

charter of liberties was adopted, which was one of 
uuexampled liberality. It lodged the largest amount of 
power in the people, reserving only a negative vote to the 
proprietary. 

8. Penn now returned to England, leaving the 
government in the hands of five commissioners of 

the royal council, with Thomas Lloyd as president. Soon 

after his return to England, King Charles IL died, nnd 

was succeeded by his brother, the Duke of York. The 

new king (James II.) was friendly to Penn, and, after the 

llevolution which placed William and Mary on the 

throne, the government of Pennsylvania was taken 

in the hands of the kin<2:, who commissioned Colonel 

1691. ^ 

Fletcher to govern the province. Penn himself 
wafi several times imprisoned, for his supposed adherence 
to the fortunes of the banished sovereign. 

9. Finally, the entire innocence of William Penn wag 

fully established, and ho was again restored to his 

proprietary rights. But the pressure of poverty 
prevented his immediate return to Pennsylvania, and 
Markham was invested with the executive power. Ijefor*? 

the close of the century, William Penn was with 

1699. . 

his wife and family in Pennsylvania. The house 
he occupied is still standing in the city of Philadelphia. 

10. Pcnn now prepared a new frame of Kovern- 
1701. . . ^ ^ ° 

ment, in which he conceded all the political pri- 
vileges asked for by the people. Religious liberty w.ia 



60 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

established, and the province became an asylum for tho 
oppressed of every clime and creed. He now returned to 
England, leaving Andrew Hamilton as deputy governor. 
This great and good man never again returned to his 
province. He died in London, in 1718, leaving his interest 
in Pennsylvania to his children. It continued in the Penn 
family until the Revolution, when their claim was purchase*! 
by the commonwealth for the sum of $580,000. 

Questions on the Settlement of Pennsylvania. — 1. When and by 
whom was the first European settlement made in Pennsylvania? 
Name other settlements made by the Swedes. 

2. Who was William Penn ? Hott did he obtain the territory ? 

3. What royal proclamation was made ? 

4. When did the first colonists leave England ? Where did 
.hey land ? 

5. When did Penn arrive, and where did he land ? 

6. After leaving New Castle, where did he proceed ? When was 
Philadelphia founded ? What promise was given by the Indians ? 

7. Where was the first Legislative Assembly held ? The second ? 
^7hat is said of the charter of liberties ? 

8. When did Penn return to England ? Why was the govern- 
Bient taken out of his hands ? 

9. When the government was restored, who acted as deputy 
governor ? When did Penn revisit the province ? 

10. What did Penn grant to the people ? When did he return 
to England? When and where did he die? How long did the 
province belong to the Penn family ? What was then paid for 
the claim? 



SETTLEMENT OF GEORGIA. 61 



SETTLEMENT OP GEORGIA. 

1. We come now to the settlement of the thirteenth and 
hst of the original colonies. James Oglethorpe, a member 
of Parliament, and a philanthropist, desirous of procuring 
an asylum for multitudes who were poor and helpless in 
the country of their birth, associated a number of gentlemen 

with himself for that purpose. They obtained a 
charter from George II. , which erected the country 
between the Savannah and the Alatamaha, and from the 
head springs of those rivers due west to the Pacific, into 
the province of Georgia, and placed it for twenty-one years 
under the guardianship of a corporation " in trust for the 
poor." 

2. In November, General Oglethorpe himself, with about 
one hundred and twenty emigrants, left England, and 
arrived at Charleston. From thence he sailed to Port 

Royal. Then, ascendinc: the Savannah River, he 

1733. , . . . 

chose as the site of his town the high bluff on 
which the city of Savannah is built. 

3. Oglethorpe now entered into treaties of alliance with 
the neighboring tribes of Indians, and, by his kindness, con- 
ciliated the sons of the forest, and gained their confidence. 
The trustees having invited the persecuted Protestants of 

Europe to settle in Georgia, great numbers came 
from Germany, the Highlands of Scotland, and 

other portions of Europe, and formed settlements in this 

now thriving province. 

4. The same year, the town of Augusta was laid out, 
and Oglethorpe visited England. In 1736, he returned, 

6 



63 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

with three hundred emigrants, and the colony 

1736. , , . ^ . ^ , 

wOvS constantly receiving accessions. Among other 
benevolent enterprises^ the celebrated preacher, George 
Whiteficld, founded an orphan asylum at Savannah. 

5. The boundaries between the province and Florida 
not being clearly defined, Oglethorpe, with a party, built a 
■fort, named St. George, on an island at the mouth of the 
St. John's River, which he claimed to be the southern 
limits of Georgia, The Spaniards of Florida threatened 
war, and claimed the whole territory as far as the sound 
of St. Helena. But hostilities were avoided for a time bv 
negotiation. The English Fort St. George was abandoned, 
and the St. Mary's Kiver ultimately became the southern 
boundary of Georgia. 

6. In 1739, England declared war against Spain, 

and Oglethorpe again extended the boundaries of 

Georgia to the St. John's River, and, early the next year, 

,^^^ invaded Florida. He attacked St. Augustine, but 

17*0. . . 

in consequence of the sickness of his troops, and 
their ill success, he was obliged to return to Georgia. 
,^,„ 7. The Spanish government now resolved to 

1743. . \ ^ 

invade Georgia. A fleet and armament from Cuba 
Eaile,d towards the mouth of the St. Mary's, and shortly 
afterwards entered St. Simon's Harbor, successfully passing 
the English batteries. A party of Spaniards landed and 
marched against tlie town of Frederica, but were defeated 
by Oglethorpe and a company of Scottish Highlanders; a 
second party advanced to the rescue, but they were also 
defeated and compelled to retreat with a loss of two hundred 
men. But the Spaniards being embarrassed by divisions, 
deceived by an ingenious stratagem, and fearful of surprise, 
rc-embarkcd and left the coast, much to the joy of the 
colonists. 



SETTLEMENT OF GEORGIA. 6B 

8. After a year of peace, General Oglethorpe, 
having fulfilled his mission, returned to England, 
wliere he lived to extreme old age, beloved and venerated 
by all his contemporaries for his nobleness of nature, and 
Ills great benevolence of character. After the departure 
of Oglethorpe, the colony enjoyed peace and uninterrupted 
prosperity until the Revolution, which sundered its " poli- 
tical ties," and formed it into a sovereign and independent 
state. 



Questions on the Settlement of Georgia. — 1. Who was the founder 
of Georgia ? From whom did he receive a charter ? Describe the 
extent of territory granted to him. 

2. Where did he make his settlement ? In what year? 

o. What is said of his alliance with the Indians ? What claas 
of emigrants now settled in Georgia ? 

4. What did Oglethorpe do in 1734? When did he return? 
What is said of the colony ? 

5. What fort was built by Oglethorpe? Give its location. 
What did the Spaniards claim? What ultimately became the 
boundary ? 

6. What war was declared in 1739 ? What was done by Ogle- 
thorpe ? What town was attacked ? 

7. Describe the invasion of Georgia. Where were the Spaniards 
defeated? What did they do soon after? 

8. In what year did Governor Oglethorpe return to England? 
What further is said of him? What is said of the colony after 
his departure ? 



Qi HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 



COLONIAL HISTORY. 

FROM THE COMMENCEMENT OP THE EIGHTEENTH CEN- 
TURY TO THE END OF THE FRENCH WAR IN 1763. 

1. We have now traced the history of the original thirteen 
colonies from their discovery and first settlements, to a period 
in which they were firmly established as valuable appendages? 
to the British crown, and from which they were finally 
alienated by the tyranny and folly of the latter. 

2. In May, 1702, England, now governed by 
Queen Anne, declared war against both France 

and Spain, and our colonies were again involved in its 
horrors. Deerfield, in Massachusetts, was surprised 
in the dead of night by a party of French and 
Indians, and most of the inhabitants massacred or carried 
into captivity. For several years these savage hostilities 
continued, and the settlers were frequently surprised, and 
scalped or murdered by their cruel enemies, who respected 
neither sex nor age. 

3. But now a fleet from England, joined by 
another from New England, and four colonial regi- 
ments, sailed from Boston, and, in a few days, anchored in 
the harbor of Port Royal, the garrison of which soon capit- 
ulated, and marched out with the honors of war. In honor 
of the queen, the place was named Annapolis. 

4. The following year a large fleet sailed from 
England, under command of Admiral Walker, for 

the reduction of Canada. An army was also assembled at 
Albany, to co-operate with the fleet in its attack on Mont- 



KING George's war. 65 

roal. But the fleet never readied its destination. Tho 
obstinacy of the admiral, in rejecting the advice of the 
pilots, caused the wreck of several vessels, and the loss of 
isearly nine hundred men. This disaster put an end to the 
expedition. Two years afterwards, the war was 
terminated by the treaty of Utrecht, and Acadia, 
or Nova Scotia, was ceded to the English. 

5. But the peace of Utrecht did not make a final settle- 
ment of the boundaries between France and England. 
Each power laid claim to the vast extent of territory 
extending west. The colony of New York estab- 
lished a commercial post at Oswego,* which was 
afterwards converted into a fortress, in defiance of the 
Iroquois, and the protest of France. This latter power did 
not look indifferently on English encroachments. In 1731 
the French erected the fortress of Crown Point, on 

1 T3 1 

Lake Champlain. This post defended the approach 
to Canada by water, and gave security to Montreal. 

6. A party from Canada soon afterwards arrived 
at that point where the Niagara empties into Lake 

Ontario, and here they built Fort Niagara. It was now 
seen that the ambitious designs of the French aimed to 
connect their possessions in Canada with the distant one 
of Louisiana, and that to efiect this they were establishing a 
line of communication from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. 

7. In 1744, the war, commonly called Kin<r 

1744. J.J o 

George's War, broke out between England and 
I'rance, and, as a matter of course, extended to their 
American colonies. Before the intelligence of the declara- 
tion of war had been received in New England, a body of 
French from Cape Breton surprised the English garrison 

* Fort on Lake Ontario, N. Y. 



IJO HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

at Canseau, and, after destrojdng tlie fort, carried eightj 
men as prisoners of war to Louisbourg. 

8. Shirley, the governor of Massachusetts, resolved on 
an enterprise for the capture of Louisbourg. An 
army from Massachusetts and Connecticut, undci 
command of William Pepperell, met at Canseau, and soon 
after landed on the island of Cape Breton. During the 
siege on land, Admiral Warren, with a fleet, guarded the 
approaches to the harbor, and, after the capture of a sixty- 
four gun ship laden with military stores, the governor of 
the city sent out a flag of truce, and ofiered terms of 
capitulation, which were accepted, and the city, the fort, 
and the batteries were surrendered to an army composed 
of fishermen, farmers, and mechanics. 

9. The next year, the French sent a larofe naval 

1746. "^ ' '^ 

force, with orders to ravage the whole coast; but 

sickness, tempest, the sudden death of its commander, and 

other disasters, frustrated their intentions. The 

1747. 

French fleet sent the following year was captured. 

10. Nothing further was efiected by either of the con- 

tending powers, and a treaty was concluded at 

Aix-la-Chapelle in 1748. By the terms of the 

treaty, all places captured during the war were to be restored, 

and, much to the grief of the colonists, Louisbourg again 

reverted to the French. 

11. But the French still pursued their former policy. 

They built forts, encroachino; on land which clearlv 

belonged to English grants, and forbid English 

traders trafficking with the Indians. In pursuance of this 

threat, several traders were seized and carried as prisoners 

to their fort on Presque Isle,* and some to Canada. 

* Presque Isle, on Lake Erie, PennsyUania. 



THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 67 

12. The tribes of Indians friendly to the Englisli 
had given repeated warnings of French encroach- 
ments, and suggested the importance of building a fort at 
the junction of the Alleghany and Monongahela Rivers. 
But two years were allowed to pass away, before active 
measures were adopted by either the colonial or British 
governments. 

13. Governor Dinwicldie of Viro^inia resolved to 
send " a person of distinction to the commander 

of the French forces, to know his reasons for invading the 
British dominions, while peace subsisted." He selected 
George "Washington for this important mission, who, although 
not yet twenty-two years of age, was better qualified for its 
duties than any other man in Virginia. 

14. In the middle of November, with an interpreter and 
four attendants, and an old pioneer of the wilderness as a 
guide, he started from Will's Creek (now Cumberland). 
Here he left the abodes of civilized life, and journeyed 
through immense forests, across mountains, rocky ravines, 
and swollen streams. In nine days he reached the fork of th( 
Ohio, then a wild, unbroken solitude. Here the party crossed 
the Alleghany, and proceeded towards Venango, where they 
were hospitably received and entertained for several days. 

15. At Fort Le Boeuff, French Creek, Washington was 
courteously received by the French commander, St. Pierre, 
to whom he delivered Dinwiddle's letter. On his return, 
their horses were found to be so fatigued, they left them. 

and proceeded on foot. On the 16th of January 
he reached Williamsburg, and delivered the reply 
of the French commander to Governor Binwiddie. 

16. The reply of the French commander was courteous, 
but evasive. Major Washington had heard enough on his 
expedition to be satisfied that the French only wished to 



68 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

^ain time, and that they intended to descend the 

1754* "^ , . . 

Ohio early in the spring, and take possession of the 
country. A company was therefore despatched to the fork 
of the Ohio to build a fort, and a body of troops enlisted 
and sent out under the command of Washington, now made 
lieutenant-colonel. 

17. The party at the fork of the Ohio had not half com- 
[)leted their fort^ when they were surprised by a French force 
from Venango, and compelled to withdraw. The French 
then completed the fort, which was named Duquesne,* in 
honor of the governor of New France. 

18. Washington with his detachment made a toilsome 
progress through the wilderness. On his arrival at the 
Great Meadows, he made an intrenchment, and sent out 
scouts to reconnoitre the position of the enemy. Assisted 
by some friendly Indians, they found the hiding-place of 
the French detachment. Coming on them by surprise, an 
action ensued, which resulted in the defeat of the French, 
ten of whom were killed, including Jumonville, their leader. 
This was the first battle of the French and Indian War. 

19. But while the French were constantly increasing in 
numbers, Washington received no reinforcement, and was 
compelled to fall back on a palisaded fort, which was named 
Fort Necessity, on account of the famine attendant on its 
construction. Here he was attacked by a large body of the 
enemy, and, after considerable skirmishing, the French 
commander proposed terms of capitulation, which were 
accepted by Washington, and the fort was abandoned. 

20. In the following year, the British govern 

ment prepared for military operations in America, 

and General Braddock, a veteran soldier, was sent as com- 

* Duquesne — spelled thus by Irving and Bancroft. * 



THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 69 

mauder of all the forces in the colonies. On his 

1755. , , . p , . 1 , , . 

arrival, a convention oi colonial governors was held 

at Alexandria, and four expeditions against the French 

'^rere agreed upon. They were to be sent against Fort 

Duquesne, Niagara, Crown Point, and Nova Scotia. 

21. General Braddock set out from Alexandria on the 
20th of April. He was joined by Colonel Washington at 
Fredericktown, who went as one of his aides-de-camp. On 
the 19th of May the army reached Fort Cumberland, from 
which place military roads had to be cut through the woods 
for their passage. Their progress was slow and toilsome, 
and it was the 9th of July when the advanced army crossed 
the Monongahela, ten miles from. Fort Duquesne. 

22. Colonel Washington had advised the general how to 
proceed against the wily Indian, lurking in ambush, and 
striking blows when least expected. But his advice was 
rejected with scorn, and the army held on their way, agree- 
ably to the modes of European warfare. Suddenly the 
dreadful war whoop burst upon them, and, at the same time. 
a storm of bullets from a concealed enemy. 

23. The regular soldiers were cut down by the Indian 
rifle, and most of the officers fell while leading on their 
men. The Virginia troops scattered themselves, and did 
good service behind trees, from which they could fire on 
the enemy. Colonel Washington was a conspicuous mark 
for the rifle. Two horses were shot under him, and four 
bullets passed through his coat. But he was preserved by 
Divine Providence for future usefulness. 

24. Braddock did all he could to turn back the tide of 
battle. But five horses were shot under him, and he him- 
self received a mortal wound. The regulars then fled in 
confusion, and were only saved from total destruction by 
the bravery of Washington and the provincial troops. The 



70 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

defeat was total, and the remains of the army con- 

1755. . . ' y . . 

tinned its retreat until it met the other division 
under Colonel Dunbar. General Braddock died foUr days 
after the battle at the Great Meadows. *'' His grave may 
still be seen near the National Road, one mile west of 
•f Fort Necessity.^* Colonel Dunbar, on whom the command 
devolved, destroyed the military stores, and retreated to 
Philadelphia. 

25. The expedition against Nova Scotia was conducted 
by Generals Monckton and Winslow. They took possession 
cr* the country, and compelled the unfortunate inhabitants 
to leave their homes, and all the products of their industry, 
and scattered them through the colonies. 

26. The troops destined for the reduction of Crown Point 
assembled at Albany. The artillery, ammunition, and stores 
were conveyed by water to the portage on the Hudson, where 
a fort was commenced, called Fort Edward. Here part of 
the troops remained under General Lyman, while the main 
force proceeded under General Johnson to Lake George, 
where they encamped. A body of French troops, led by 
the Baron de Dieskau. marched against them. Colonel 
Williams, with a thousand men, was detached to attack the 
enemy. An action ensued, the English were repulsed, and 
their leader killed. The action then became general, and, 
after a long contest, the French gave way. Baron Dieskau 
was wounded so as to be unfit for service, and taken pri- 
soner. In this action the brave Chevalier St. Pierre, for- 
ii-crly commander at Venango, was killed. Johnson did 
not follow up his victory, but having built a fort, which he 
named William Henry, he returned to Albany. | 

* Bancroft. 

•f Fort. Necessity, in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. 

X Irving's Life of Washington. 



THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 71 

27. The defeat of General Braddock put an end to all 
vigorous measures against the fort at Niagara. Storms, 
sickness, the desertion of the Indian allies, and other adverse 
causes, compelled General Shirley to abandon his projected 
enterprise and return to Albany. The ill success 
of the British left the frontier exposed to all the 
horrors of savage barbarity, and the inefficiency of the 
British ministry in providing the means of defence, gave 
the enemy the advantage in all their expeditions. Oswego 
was besieged by a large French force under General Mont- 
calm, and the garrison were obliged to capitulate. Sixteen 
hundred became prisoners of war, and were sent to Mont- 
real. ^Forty-five persons were killed; twelve in action, 
and the others by Indians as they endeavored to escape in 
the woods ; but beyond this there was no massacre. 

28. General Montcalm, with a large body of 
French and Indians, now besieged Fort William 
Henry, which was defended by Lieutenant-Colonel Monro, 
a brave officer. General Webb, at Fort Edward, only fifteen 
miles distant, with an army of five thousand men, refused 
to send any assistance, and the old hero was obliged to 
surrender. By the terms of capitulation, they were to 
march out with the honors of war, to abandon all but their 
private effects, and an escort was to attend them on their 
departure. 

29. But the savages, regardless of treaties, commenced 
the work of plunder and massacre, as the soldiers marched 
out. Many were tomahawked, and many made prisoners. 
Montcalm and his officers did all in their power to arrest 
Ihe massacre. " Kill me," he said, " but spare the English 
who are under my protection." Six hundred troops reached 

# Bancroft # 



72 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Fort Edward, while four hundred who had fled to the 
French camp, were sent under an escort, and an officer 
despatched to the Indians to ransom their prisoners. 
,^__ 30. The campaign of 1757 was marked with 
disaster to the colonists, and disgrace to the arms 
of England, But the succeeding campaign was more 
auspicious. The best prime-minister* who ever wielded 
the vast power of the British Empire, now held the reins 
of government, and he selected the bravest generals and 
most able commanders in the realm for the subjugation 
of the French power in America. The energies of Pitt 
infused new life into the army and the colonies, and now 
victory succeeded victory. 

31. Louisbourg was invested by a powerful army under 
General Amherst. The siege was commenced on the 8th 
of June; the garrison bravely defended this important 
place, but they were obliged to surrender; and, on the 27th 
of the same month, the English took possession of Louis- 
bourg, Cape Breton, and Prince Edward's Island. The 
garrison became prisoners of war, and, with the sailors and 
marines, numbering in all more than five thousand men, 
were sent to England. 

32. A powerful force under General Abercrombie ad- 
vanced against Ticonderoga. They passed down Lake 
George in boats, and with artillery on rafts. Soon after 
their landing, in a skirmish with a party. Lord Howe was 
killed, being the first who fell in the engagement. An 
attack was made on the fort, but the assailants were repelled 
with great slaughter, and obliged to retreat. The battle 
was lost in consequence of the inefficiency of the British 
general, who was not to be found when his presence waa 

*^il]iain Pitt, afterwards Lord Chatham, 



THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 78 

needed to rally the fugitives, whereas Montcalm, 
the French commander, with a watchful eye, super- 
intended every movement on the battle-field. 

33. Abercrombie, with the main army, remained at Lake 
(ji-eorge in supine inactivity. During the year he wa^ 
superseded by General Amherst, who was appointed com- 
mander-in-chief. Soon after the f^iilure to capture Ticonde- 
roga, Colonel Bradstreet proceeded against Fort Frontenac, 
on the Canadian side of Lake Ontario, The garrison sur- 
rendered, and the Americans destroyed the stores which 
they could not carry off, and, after razing the fortress, 
returned to Lake George. 

34. Pitt, anxious to wipe out the disgrace of Ticonderoga, 
now directed an expedition against Fort Duqucsne. G eneral 
Forbes, with a body of provincial troops, was intrusted with 
the command. Colonel Washington, at the head of the 
Virginia troops, contributed mainly to the success of the 
expedition. " General Forbes would never, without Wash- 
ington, have seen the Ohio."* 

35. When within fifty miles of the fort. Major Grant 
was sent to reconnoitre, and ascertain the force of the 
tinemy. But he was suddenly attacked by a large body of 
French and Indians. The detachment was routed. Two 
hundred and ninety-five were, killed or prisoners, and the 
remainder were saved from destruction by the coolness and 
•wiffage of Captain Bullitt of Virginia. At length the 
army arrived at Fort Duquesne, which they found deserted, 
the garrison having set fire to the fort the night before, and 
retreated down the Ohio. On the 25th of November, 
Washington, with the advanced guard, marched in and 
planted the British flag on its yet smoking ruins. By 

♦ Bancroft's History of the Uuited States, Vol. IV., p. 808. 
7 



^■4 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

common consent the place was named Fort Pitt, in honor 
of the prime minister, and on its sit6 has sprung up tho 
flourishing city of Pittsburgh. 

36. The following year several expeditions were 
planned to capture the strongholds of the enemy. 
The first executed was against the fort at Niagara. General 
Prideaux embarked at Oswego on the 1st of July with a 
large body of troops, and commenced the siege, which wa* 
pressed with vigor. On the 20th of July the general was 
killed by the bursting of a cannon, and Sir William Johnson 
now conducted the siege with skill and courage. Being 
told that a French force was marching against him, he sent 
out a detachment, which routed the enemy, and, on thg 
following day, the fort surrendered, and the garrison marched 
out with the honors of war. 

37. In the month of July, General Amherst advanced 
against Ticonderoga and Crown Point. The garrisons, 
unable to retain these posts, abandoned them, and made a 
stand at the Isle aux Noix for the protection of Montreal. 
The general occupied his time in repairing the dismantled 
forts, and then turned back, instead of proceeding against 
the enemy. 

38. Wolfe, with eight thousand men, ascended the St. 
Lawrence in June, and, on the 26th, disembarked on the 
island of Orleans. Montcalm commanded the post, with 
troops more numerous than the assailants, but not so well 
disciplined. Wolfe established batteries at the west point 
of the island, and at Point Levi, on the south bank of the 
St. Lawrence. Anxious for a decisive action, on the 9ih 
of July he crossed over in boats from the island to the nortli 
bank of the St. Lawrence, and encamped below the Mont- 
morency. 

39. Oo the 18th of July Wolfe made a reconnoitering 



THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 75 

expedition up the river, and passed Quebec un- 
harmed. Returning to Montmorency, he resolved 
to attack Montcalm in his camp. But his grenadiers were 
repulsed with a loss of four hundred men. But in the 
mean time it was resolved to land and surprise the enemy. 
I'liis was effected in the darkness of the night, on the 
loth of September. The landing took place near Cape 
Diamond. Wolfe was among the first who landed and 
ol imbed the steep ascent, where they put to flight a 
?«ergeant's guard posted at the summit, and by the break 
of day his army was in battle array on the Plains of 
Abraham. 

40. Montcalm immediately summoned all his forces, and 
led them to the attack. The English reserved their fire 
until their assailants were within forty yards, and then 
discharged deadly volleys. They, however, suffered from 
the lurking Indians, who singled out the ofiicers. Wolfe 
was wounded by a ball in the wrist. Binding a handker- 
chief around the wound, he led on the grenadiers to charge 
the foe with fixed bayonets. He now received a wound in 
his breast, which proved to be mortal. Being borne. off to 
the rear, water was brought to quench his thirst. ^' They 
run," cried one of the attendants, " see how they run V 
'■ Who run ?" demanded the dying general. " The enemy, 
air, they give way everywhere." Giving some orders to the 
otHcers round him, he exclaimed, " Now I can die in peace." 
These were his last words. Montcalm was mortally wounded 
while endeavoring to rally his flying troops, and died the 
lollowing morning. 

41. Preparations were now made for an assault on the 
city, but the garrison were dispirited, and the inhabitant! 
t?l amorous for a surrender. Quebec therefore capitulated 
on the 17th of September, and was taken possession of by 



76 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

the British. The following year the French made 
an unsuccessful attempt to recapture Quebec, and 
Montreal soon after surrendered to the English forces under 
the commander-in-chief, General Amherst. 

42. The war was now at an end in America, though it 
continued in Europe until the treaty of peace in 
1763, by which France surrendered to Great Britain 
all Canada, Nova Scotia, Cape Breton and adjacent islands, 
and Louisiana to the Mississippi River. Of the vast po.s- 
sessions France had proudly claimed, she retained only a 
share in the fisheries and two small islands, St. Pierre and 
Miquelon. She also ceded to Spain, New Orleans, and all 
Louisiana west of the Mississippi. 

Questions on Colonial History to the end of the French War — 
1. How far has the history been traced ? 

2. With what nations was England at war ? What is said of 
Beerfield ? What is said of Indian warfare ? 

8. What expedition was fitted out ? What place was captured, 
and what was it named, and why ? 

4. Why did a fleet sail from England ? Where was an arm^r 
assembled ? What disaster occurred ? How was the war ended ? 
What was ceded to the English ? 

6. What was claimed both by France and England? Whai 
post was established by the colony of New York? What did the 
French establish? 

6. Where was Fort Niagara built ? What was France doing ? 

7. What war broke out in 1744? What was done by a body of 
French troops ? 

8. Describe the siege and capture of Louisbourg. Who was th« 
general, and of what classes was his army composed ? 

9. What occurred in 1747 ? In 1748? 

10. Where was a treaty of peace signed ? In what year? 
^ 11 What did the French still continue to do ? 

12. What notice was given by friendly Indians ? What did 
Lhey suggest ? 



COLONIAL HISTORY. 77 

13. Whom did Governor Dinwiddle send on a mission to the 
Fj-ench commander ? 

14. Describe Washington's journey. How were the party re- 
ceived at Venango ? 

15. II 3w was Washington received at Fort Le Bocuif ? 

16. What is said of the reply of -the French commander? For 
what purpose was a company sent to the fork of the Ohio ? Who 
commanded the troops sent out ? 

17. By whom were the party at the fork of the Ohio surprised? 
What did the French then do ? What was the fort named ? 

18. Where did Colonel Washington throw up an intrenchment* 
Describe the battle. 

19. Why did Washington withdraw his troops ? Where did he 
n\ake a stand? What was the result? 

20. Who was sent by the British government to command the 
forces in America ? What expeditions were agreed upon ? 

21. When did General Braddock set out? By whom was ho 
joined? What had to be done after leaving Fort Cumberland? 

22. What did Colonel Washington advise ? How was his advice 
received ? What took place ? 

23. Describe the battle. What is said of Washington ? 

24. What is said of Braddock? How were the regulars saved 
from destruction ? When and where did General Braddock die ? 
What did Colonel Dunbar do ? 

25. Describe the expedition against Nova Scotia. 

26. Where was Fort Edward built Where did General Johnson 
proceed with his troops ? Who marched against him ? Describe 
the battle. What distinguished man fell in the action? Wliat 
fort did Johnson build ? 

27. What causes prevented General Shirley's projected enter- 
prise against Niagara? By whom was Oswego besieged ? AVliat 
is said of a massacre ? 

28. Describe the siege of Fort William Henry. What were Mie 
(erms of capitulation? 

29. What did the savages attempt as the garrison marched out? 
What did Mofttcalm and his officers do? Repeat his words. 

30. What is said of the campaign of 1757? Who now became 
prime minister ? (See note.) 

7* 



7$ HISTORY OF TUE UNITED STATES. 

31. Who laid siege to Louisbourgf Of what place& did th* 
English take possession ? 

32. Describe General Abercrombie's assault on Fori Ticonde- 
roga? What ofiBcer fell ? Who lost the battle ? Who commanded 
the French ? • 

33. By whom was Abercrombie superseded? Describe the 
expedition of Colonel Bradstreet. 

34. Who marched against Fort Duquesne? What is said of 
Colonel Washington ? Repeat the quotation. 

35. What is said of Major Grant's reconnoitering party ? Who 
eame to their rescue ? As the army approached what did the 
French do ? What was the place named, and what city stands on 
its site ? 

36. Describe General Prideaux's siege of Niagara. What caused 
his death, and who succeeded him ? Why did he send out n 
detachment ? 

37. Describe Amherst's expedition against Ticonderoga and 
Crown Point. 

38. Where did General Wolfe disembark ? Where did he estab- 
lish batteries? What is said of Montcalm? What did Wolfe do 
in July ? 

39. Describe Wolfe's further movements. What was done on 
the 13th of September? 

40. Describe Montcalm's attack. What is said of General 
Wolfe? When informed of the flight of the enemy, what did he 
say ? What is related of Montcalm ? 

41. When did Quebec surrender ? What did the French attempt 
in 1760? What town was surrendered the same year? 

42. Whj^t is said of the war? What was surrendered by the 
treaty of 1763? What did France retain? What did Franc* 
cede to Spain ? 



FROM THE FRENCH WAR TO THE REVOLUTION. 79 



FROM THE FRENCH WAR TO THE REVOLUTION. 

1. The colonists were coiiijrratulatinor themselves 

1763. " ° 

on peace, when an Indian insurrection broke out. 
The Dclawares and Shawnees, with other tribes, were fore- 
most, led by an active warrior named Poutiac. An attack 
was made at a concerted time, on all the posts from Detroit 
to Fort Pitt. The frontiers of Pennsylvania, Maryland, 
and Virginia were laid waste, and a considerable time 
elapsed before the frontier was restored to any degree of 
tranquillity. 

2. The British ministry, on the termination of 
the war with France, determined to maintain a 

large standing army in America, and to tax the colonies for 
its support. They revived and enforced the navigation 
laws, which were ruinous to American commerce, as the 
system closed their ports against foreign vessels; obliged 
them to export their productions to British ports, to import 
European goods from England, and in Enghsh ships. 
Parliament now imposed duties on sugar and other West 
Indian products imported into the colonies. 

3. The colonists sent agents to England to re- 
monstrate against these impositions, but without 

avail; for now the Stamp Act was brought forward by the 
ministry, and passed by Parliament. This act required 
that all notes, bonds, and other legal instruments should be 
executed on stamped paper, which should pay a duty to the 
crown. '* Unless stamps were used, marriages would be 
null, notes of hand valueless, ships at sea prizes to the first 



80 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. '^^^'^ 

captors, suits at law impossible, traDsfers of real estate 
invalid, inheritances irreclaimable."* 

4. The authors of the Stamp Act never dreamed of the 
furious opposition vphich awaited their favorite measure in 
the colonies. The da}- on which the "Act" was to go into 
operation was ushered in with tolling of bells, and other 
signs of mourning. The stamp officers were resisted, or 
burnt in effigy, and, by common consent, not a single stamp 
was used in one of the colonies. The merchants of New 
York, Philadelphia, and Boston resolved to import no more 
British manufactures, unless the Stamp Act should be 
repealed. 

5. The next year a chan2;e took place in the 

1766. . . . . -^ , ^ ^ 

British ministry, and the Stamp Act was repealed, 
to the great joy of the colonists. There was, however, a 
clause in the repeal, which declared that the king, with the 
consent of Parliament, had the power and authority to make 
luws of sufficient force and validity to " bind the colonies, 
and people of America, in all cases whatsoever." 

6. The discontent of the colonists was excited 

1767. 

by other Acts of Parliament. One imposed duties 
on glass, red and white lead, painters^ colors, pasteboard, 
and tea, and declared an American revenue expedient. 
Another act authorized naval officers to enforce the naviga- 
tion laws. These and other oppressive laws were resisted 
by the colonies as subversive of their charters, and a viola- 
tion of the principles of constitutional liberty. 

7. The General Court of Massachusetts sent a circular to 
otiier colonial assemblies, to unite with them in measures 
of redress. The governors of these colonies then dissolved 

* Bancroft. 



FROM THE FRENCH WAR TO THE REVOLUnON. 81 

these legislatures, and thus increased the excitement. A 
petition to the governor of Massachusetts, to convene the 
legislature, having been rejected, the inhabitants of Boston 
assembled in " town meeting/' and voted to forbear the use 
and importation of British goods, while the tax remained 
in force. 

8. The British government found that the colo- 
nists remained true to their principles, in spite of 
threats and coercive measures. Taxation without being 
represented in the affairs of the government, was an en- 
croachment they would not submit to. They were deter- 
mined to withstand all efforts on the part of the ministry 
having a tendency to abridge their freedom. The ministry, 
on the other hand, determined to apply the strong hand of 
power in compelling obedience. Accordingly, in September, 
a squadron, with two regiments of soldiers and artillery, 
appeared in Boston harbor. 

9. On the 1st of October the troops were landed, and 
paraded through the town. Some of the troops were en- 
camped on the Common, others were quartered in the State 
House, and a portion in Faneuil Hall. The inhabitants 
refused to furnish quarters, and the approach of winter 
obliged the governor to hire houses for the soldiers' winter 
lodgings. 

10. For more than a year the troops in Boston 
remained in inactivity, and the ministers of the 
British crown did nothing to satisfy the demands of the 
colonists. But the people wore everywhere active and 
untiring. Every colony gave its direct approval of the 
course of Massachusetts, and its determination to rcsit^t 
tyranny. 

11. Disturbances now frequently occurred between the 



82 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

--,^^ citizens and soldiers. On the 5th of March a 

1770* 

conflict ensued, when the soldiers fired on the 
inhabitants, killed three, and wounded eight others, two of 
them mortally. The Boston Massacre added another link 
do the chain of grievances which already oppressed a loyal 
and confiding nation. Parliament now repealed the taxes 
on glass, paper, painters' colors, and everything except tea. 
The king's friends retained that duty rather to assert a 
claim to tax America, than from any prospect of a lucrative 
revenue. But in America the obnoxious principle still 
existed, and the people refused to use the taxed article. 
No tea was therefore imported. 

12. The East India Company now made prepa- 

1 773« , 

rations to send large cargoes of tea to America. 
Philadelphia began the work of preventing its landing. 
Its inhabitants denied the right of Parliament to tax Ame- 
rica, condemned the duty on tea, and declared every one 
who favored the tax an enemy to his country, and requested 
the agents of the East India Company to resign. The 
people of New York resolved the tea should not be landed. 
The people of Boston passed similar resolutions, and re- 
quested the consignees to send the ships back. But they 
equivocated, and hoped to gain by delay. The custom* 
house refused a clearance, the governor refused his permis- 
sion, and the people prepared for the struggle. On the 
night of the 6th of December, a band of men disguised as 
Indians took possession of the three tea ships at the wharf, 
broke open the chests, and emptied the contents into the 
bay, without any injury to the vessels. 
1774 ^^' "^'^^ general opposition in America to the 
principle of taxation, had embittered the king and 
ministry against all the colonies; but this last bold act con- 



FROM THE FRENCH WAR TO THE REVOLUTION. 83 

centrated all their wrath on the devoted town of 
Boston. An act was passed (called the Boston 
Port Bill) by which all lading and unlading of goods should 
cease in the town and harbor^ on and after the 4th day of 
June, and the collection of customs be transferred to Salem. 
Another act decreed that all judges and magistrates should 
be appointed by the king. It was also enacted, that any 
person indicted for crimes might be sent to another colony, 
or to Great Britain, for trial. 

14. These oppressive acts of the British ministry serve<l 
but to strengthen the bonds of union throughout the colo- 
nics. It was resolved to hold a general congress of the 
different provinces. This body assembled in Philadelphia 
on the 5th of September. It was composed of fifty-five 
delegates, representing all the colonies except Georgia, 
They adopted a series of resolutions, as a " declaration of 
colonial rights/' in which were enumerated their natural 
rights to the enjoyment of life, liberty, and property, and 
their rights as British subjects. They also agreed to enter 
into a non-importation, non-consumption, and non-exporta- 
tion agreement, and they sent an address' to the king, 
another to the people of Great Britain, and a memorial t<» 
the inhabitants of British America. Having finished thoii 
kborS; they adjourned on the 26th of October. 

15. In order to enforce the obnoxious laws, and intimi 
date the people of Massachusetts, General G-dg;o had been 
appointed military governor, and he occupied Boston witli 
an army, to compel obedience. But he had no pow< r 
beyond the town. The colonists were firm in their de- 
termination to resist the arbitrary decrees of king and 
parliament, and they were everywhere arming and pro- 
paring for tJbe 3xpected contest. The power of Greai 



94 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

. ^ Britain was at an end, and the united colonies 

177*. 

were then on the eve of becoming free and inde- 
pendent, in consequence of the unwise and unjust policy 
of what was then regarded as the mother country. 

Questions on Colonial History from the French War to the Revolu- 
tion. — 1. What Indian tribes made war ? Who was their leader 7 
What colonies suffered most ? 

2. What was determined by the British ministry? What re- 
strictions were imposed by the navigation laws? What duties 
were imposed ? 

3. What act was passed in 1765 ? What was required by this 
ACt ? Recite the quotation. 

4. How was the Stamp Act. received in tho colonies? What 
was done by the merchants ? 

5. What was done the next year ? What clause was contained 
in the repeal? 

6. What duties were imposed in 1767 ? What other act gave 
>ffence ? 

7. What was voted by the inhabitants of Boston ? 

8. What measure did the colonists refuse to submit to ? What 
did the ministry do ? 

9. When and where were troops landed ? 

10. What is now said of the people ? 

11. What took place on the 6th of March ? What was done by 
Parliament ? What is said of tea ? 

12. What did Philadelphia do to prevent the landing of tea? 
New York ? Boston ? 

13. What was enacted by the Boston Port Bill ? What other 
acts were passed ? 

14. When and where did the first general congress meet? 
What did they adopt ? What was agreed upon ? When did they 
adjourn? 

15 Who was appointed military governor of Bfassachusetta ? 
Why was he sent ? What were the colonists doing ? 



THB BEVOLUTIOli. S6 



THE REVOLUTION. 

1. The people of the colonies had failed in 
every attempt at conciliation ; their petitions were 
i*purned, and their remonstrances disregarded, and now 
there seemed to be no resource left them but an appeal to 
arms. Preparations were made on both sides for approach- 
ing hostilities, but nothing decisive occurred until the 19th 
of April. General Gage determined to surprise and destrov 
the magazine of military stoves at Concord, about eighteen 
miles from Boston. 

2. For this purpose a body of troops was despatched, in 
the silence and secrecy of night, under command of Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel Smith, and took the road to Concord. But, 
though General Gage used every precaution to conceal this 
expedition from the inhabitants, and issued strict orders 
that none should leave the town, yet messengers were sent 
out, and signals given to alarm the country. When the 
udvaJiced party arrived at Lexington, they found about 
seventy persons in arms, drawn up in two ranks, on the 
village green, near the church. 

3, Major Pitcairn rode in front, and cried out, " Disperse, 
you rebels, throw down your arms, and disperse !" He then 
♦iischarged his pistol, and gave orders to his men to fire. 
'J'he order was immediately followed by a destructive fire 
of musketry. The British then proceeded to Concord, and 
destroyed the military stores which the colonists had not 
previously removed. While thus engaged, the inhabitants 
of the neighboring towns were hastening to join the Concord 
militin. 

8 



m 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




KAJOK PITCAIBN AT LEXINGTON. 



4. Colonel Smith now made preparations for liis 
retrograde march to Boston, and the American? 
for a galling fire, which was kept up until they reached 
Lexington. Here Lord Percy, with a large detachment, 
came to the relief of the exhausted troops, and, after a 
short interval for rest and refreshment, continued the re- 
treat. The firing was renewed by the pursuers until the 
British reached Charlestown Common, when General Heath, 
who had taken the command, brought the provincials to a 
halt. In this memorable battle the British loss was two 
hundred and seventy-three, in killed, wounded, and missing, 
while that of the Americans was eighty-eight. 

5. The cry of the blood shed at Lexington and Concord 
went through the whole land, and multitudes hastened to 
the relief of their brethren of Massachusetts. General 
Gage and his army were closely besieged in Boston, and 
every avenue to the surrounding country was strictly guarded. 
When the news reached Georgia, that colony joined tbo 



THE REVOLUTION. 87 

1775. ^°^^°' ^^^"^ making thirteen colonies joined U) 
resist the oppressions of the British governmcut. 

6. As war was now considered inevitable, it was resolved 
to surprise the old forts of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, 
which commanded the approach to Canada. A party of 
men enhsted for this purpose, under the command of Colonel 
Kthan Allen, who arrived at Ticonderoga on the morning 
of the 10th of May. Guided by a boy of the neighborhood. 
they rushed through a sally port-hole, and gave three cheers, 
which roused up the sleeping garrison. The commander 
appeared at his door, and asked Allen by what authority 
he acted. ^' In the name of the great Jehovah, and the 
Continental Congress,^' exclaimed Allen. The fort was 
immediately surrendered. 

7. Colonel Warner, second in command to Allen, was 
sent against Crown Point, which surrendered without re- 
sistance. A detachment took possession of Skenesborough, 
now Whitehall, and captured a schooner. Colonel Benedict 
Arnold was sent in this schooner to capture St. John's, which 
he effected, and took a sloop of war, with two brass six- 
pounders and seven men. Thus did this band of patriots 
gain the command of Lakes George and Champlain, and 
open the great highway into Canada. 

8. On the 10th of May, but a few hours after the sur- 
render of Ticonderoga, the Continental Congress again met 
in Philadelphia. They elected Peyton Ilandolph president, 
but that gentleman being obliged to return to Virginia. 
John Hancock, of Massachusetts, was selected to succeed 
him. A federal union was formed, vesting in Congress the 
power of making peace or war, of entering into treaties and 
alliances, and of legislating on all such matters as regarded 
the general security and welfare, and George Washington 
was elected commander-in-chief. 



88 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

9. While Congress was in session^ great events 
were transpiring in Boston and its vicinity On 
the 25th of May several transports and ships of war arrived 
from England, bringing large reinforcements under Generals 
Howe, Burgoyne, and Clinton. General Gage now deter- 
mined to take the field, and dislodge the Americans who 
were besieging the royal army in Boston. But the pro- 
rincials, anticipating such a movement, sent out a force tx.> 
throw up an intrenchment on Bunker Hill. On the night 
of the 16th of June, the party, under command of Colonel 
Prescott, set out in fulfilment of this duty, but finding that 
Breed's Hill was nearer to Boston, and had a better com- 
mand of the town and shipping, it was determined to fortify 
that position instead of Bunker Hill. 

10. Early on next morning the British beheld the Ame- 
ricans at their work, and commenced firing upon them. 
As nothing was efi'ected by this cannonade, a large detach- 
ment under command of Major-General Howe was sent to 
dislodge the provincials. The enemy advanced in two 
columns, discharging a heavy fire of musketry, but, in 
obedience to General Putnam's orders, the Americans re- 
served their fire till the enemy were within thirty paces. 
When the British came within the prescribed distance, a 
deadly fire was poured upon them from muskets, rifles, and 
fowling-pieces. The enemy were thrown into confusion, 
and precipitately retreated. 

11. The British now prepared for a second attack. 
Charlestown was set on fire, and wrapped in a general 
conflagration, while the enemy ascended the hill to storm 
the redoubt. They were received as before ; whole ranks 
cut down by the destructive fire of the provincials, and 
again compelled to retreat. They now made their third 
attack, when, the ammunition of the provincials being 



THE REVOLUTION. 89 

expended, Colonel Prescott gave the order to re- 
treat, which they did in good order. The British 
now gained the redoubt, to them a dear-bought victory. 
Major Pitcairn fell, mortally wounded, as he was entering 
the works, and the enemy's total loss was one thousand and 
fifty-four, including many officers. The American loss was 
four hundred and fifty, among whom was General Warren, 
one of the noblest and purest minded patriots. 

12. After General Washington's appointment to the chief 
command, he set out for Massachusetts. On his way, in- 
telligence met him of the battle of Bunker Hill, and the 
noble stand made by the inexperienced militia. On the 3d 
of July he took formal command of the army at Cambridge. 
Here he found a body of raw militia, totally inadequate to 
carry on a siege, and sadly deficient in clothing and military 
i-upplies. He now urged on Congress the necessity of 
ijupplies, took measures to strengthen the fortifications 
around Boston, and improve and perfect the discipline 
of his army. 

13. Preparations were made for the invasion of Canada. 
Arnold, who had assisted in the capture of Ticonderoga, was 
sent with a body of troops, and, after a toilsome march 
through the wilderness, arrived at Point Levi, near Quebec, 
which he could at once have captured had he been able to 
cross the river. When he did so, and drew up his army on 
the Heights of Abraham, the garrison was strongly rein- 
forced. Arnold, therefore, was obliged to withdraw, and 
wait for the main body of the army. 

14. The other expedition was conducted by General 
Schuyler, who had sent out a reconnoitcring party under 
Colonel Allen and Major Brown. The former, with a small 
force, attempted the capture of Montreal, but they were 
repulsed, made prisoners, and treated as rebels and outlaws, 

8* 



90 HISTORY or THE UNITED STATES. 

unwortliy of the courtesy shown to prisoners of 
war. Colonel Allen himself was loaded vith 

irons, and sent to England, where he endured a rigorous 

captivity. 

15. General Schuyler was now attacked with serious ill- 
Dess, and the expedition was conducted by Montgomery, 
the second in command. He pressed on and laid siege to 
St. John's, on the Sorel River, sending a detachment to 
Fort Chamblie, which was captured, with a quantity of 
powder and other military stores. The garrison of St. 
John's, hard pressed, and obtaining no relief, was obliged 
%o surrender, and Montgomery proceeded to Montreal, which, 
unprepared for defence, immediately submitted. 

16. Montgomery now placed garrisons in Montre«i and 
the captured forts, and, with such of his troops as he could 
persuade to accompany him, proceeded down the St- Law- 
rence to co-operate with Arnold in the attack on Quebec. 
Their united forces did not exceed nine hundred men, with 
whom they commenced the siege ; but being unable to make 
a breach in the walls, an assault was determined on. Before 
daylight on the 31st of December, in the midst of a driving 
snow-storm, attacks were made on the opposite sides of the 
lower town by Montgomery and Arnold. Montgomery 
advanced along a narrow beach on the river to a picket and 
block-house, both of which were deserted on his approach. 
He now paused a moment to urge on his troops, who were 
stumbling along the difficult pass, exclaiming, " Quebec is 
ours.*' He again advanced, until, within forty paces of the 
battery, a single cannon, loaded with grape-shot, was dis- 
charged, and the brave general and one of his aids were 
killed on the spot. 

17. The soldiers, on the death of their commander, re- 
treated in confusion, and abandoned their half-won battle- 



THE REVOLUTION. 91 

field. Arnold, on the other side, had entered thf 
town, but was severely wounded when near a 
battery, and was carried oflP. Captain Morgan took the 
command, and stormed the battery. But the death of 
Montgomery and retreat of his troops enabled the English 
to send large reinforcements, and a severe contest followed, 
when Morgan and his gallant band were compelled to sur- 
render as prisoners of war, 

18. Arnold, with the remainder of the army, retired to a 
short distance from Quebec, and maintained his position, 
giving constant alarm to its garrison. For his gallant 
services Congress promoted him to the rank of brigadier- 
general. 

19. The events of this year, and the popular rising of an 
outraged people, put an end to the authority of the royal 
governors. Lord IXnnnore, of Virginia, removed the powder 
from the magazine at Williamsburg to an English vessel 
of war. The indignation of the people was aroused, and 
they demanded immediate restoration of the powder. The 
governor saw that resistance was useless, and paid over to 
Patrick Henry, who had the chief command, the full value 
of the abstracted powder. Soon after, Dunmore left the 
colony, and, with his family, went on board a British man- 
of-war. From this vessel he frequently landed detachments 
to attack different points, and offered freedom to all slaves 
who would join his standard. Norfolk was attacked and 
butned, after which atrocious act he left the colony, and 
the governors of North Carolina, South Carolina, and New 
York soon after fled from their respective governments. 

Questions on the Revolution, Events of \llb. — 1. How had the 
colonists been treated ? What was determined by General Gage ? 

2. Who commanded the expedition? What did they find ai 
Lexington ? 



Wji HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. What did Major Pitcairn say ? Whaf. was done by the troopr 
ftt Lexington ? At Concord ? 

4. What occurred on their return? Who came to their relief? 
What losses were sustained ? 

5. AVhat effect was produced by the news of this battle ? What 
did Georgia now do ? 

6. Who captured Fort Ticonderoga ? 

7. What was captured by Colonel Warner ? By Colonel Bene- 
dict Arnold ? 

8. When was the second meeting of Congress ? What powers 
were vested in Congress by the Federal Union ? Who was ap- 
pointed commander-in-chief? 

9. Who was besieged in Boston ? What British generals ar- 
rived with reinforcements ? What height was fortified by the 
Americans ? 

10. What was done by the British on the following morning ? 
Who marched against the American intrenchments ? Who com- 
manded the Americans? What was the result of the first 
attack ? 

11. What town was burned ? What was the result of the second 
attack ? The third attack ? What British officer was killed, and 
what was the total loss ? What was the American loss ? What is 
said of General Warren ? 

12. When and where did General Washington take command 
of the army ? In what was it deficient ? 

13. What is said of Ai'nold's expedition to Canada? 

14. By whom was the other expedition conducted ? Who were 
taken prisoners, and how were they treated ? What was done 
with Colonel Allen ? 

15. Why did the expedition devolve on Montgomery ? What 
places were captured ? 

16. With whom did Montgomery unite his forces ? What place 
did they besiege? Describe the assault of Quebec. Describe 
Montgomery's advance, and give an account of his death. 

17. What happened to Arnold? What was done by Captain 
Morgan ? Why was he defeated ? 

18. What did Arnold do with the remaining troops? What 
rank did Congress confer on him ? 



THE REVOLUTION. 93 

19. What is said of Lord Dunruore ? Who demanded restitution 
of the powder he had takea ? What town was burned by his 
orders ? What other governors fled from the colonies ? 



EVENTS OF 1776. 

1. The siege of Boston continued through the 
winter, during which nothing occurred of special 
interest. On the night of March 2d, a cannonade was 
commenced, which was kept up until the 4th, when General 
Thomas, with a detachment, threw up two forts on Dor- 
chester Heights during the darkness of the night. At 
daybreak the next morning the British beheld these for- 
midable batteries looming up before their astonished gaze. 

2. The following night a body of troops embarked to 
attack the American works, but a furious storm j^revented 
the landing of the transports, and the attempt was relin- 
quished. It was therefore determined to evacuate the town, 
which was done on the 17th, the troops embarking, and the 
ships leaving the harbor, without being molested by the 
Americans. General Washington, with his army, marched 
into the town the same day, to the great joy of the inhabit- 
ants, and soon after, with the principal part of the army, 
proceeded to New York, which he supposed would be the 
next point of attack by the enemy. 

3. General Thomas, who had been sent to the relief of 
the army in Canada, took command of the troops at Quebec 
about the last of April. But the garrison had been rein- 
forced, and the Americans enfeebled by disease and priva- 
tions. In this condition they were attacked by General 
Carlcton, and obliged to retreat, with the loss of their 
artillery and baggage. The prisoners were, however, treated 



<H HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

with great humanity, and the sick taken to the 
hospitals, and liberated on their recovery. General 
Thomas continued his retreat to the mouth of the Sorel, 
where he was reinforced. But soon after his arrival he was 
taken ill with the small-pox, and died on the 2d of June. 
eneral Sullivan succeeded to the command, but was unalile 
to compete with the greatly strengthened force of the enemy. 
The Americans retreated from post to post, and finally 
evacuated Canada on the 18th of June. 

•i. While these events were transpiring in Canada, Sir 
Henry Clinton, with a powerful armament, and assisted by 
n fieet under command of Sir Peter Parker, made an attack 
on Charleston, South Carolina, June 28th. General Lee 
had been sent to the defence of the city. When the fleet 
came abreast of Sullivan's Island, a fire was opened from a 
foi't newly erected, which did terrible execution ; the ships 
were disabled, and withdrew from the contest. In honor 
of its gallant defender, the post was called Fort Moultrie. 

5. At this time Congress had under discussion the greatest 
question ever debated in America. The colonies had asked 
for justice, and had been treated with contempt, their righta 
disregarded, their liberties trampled on, their towns burned, 
and their people slaughtered. It was therefore resolved in 
Congress, " that these united colonies are, and of right ought 
to be, free and independent states." The Declaration of 
Independence was announced to the people on the 4th of 
July, causing general joy and gratulation. 

6. General Howe, with the army that had evacuated 
Boston, took possession of Staten Island on the 2d of July, 
and on the 12th was joined by his brother, Admiral Lord 
Howe, with an army of British and Hessians. He was 
soon after reinforced by the arrival of Sir Henry Clinton, 
accompanied by Lord Cornwallis and three thousand troops. 



THE REVOLUTION. 95 

General Greene was stationed at BiookWn with a 

1776. . 

considerable force, as it was supposed the encraj 
Intended to march across Long Island for the attack on 
Now York. 

7. Some distance east of Brooklyn is a range of hills, 
then thickly covered with woods. Through these, thre^, 
passes extended, which General Greene had intended if). 
have guarded and occupied, but in the midst of his arduon-^ 
duties, he was taken ill with a raging fever, and the tempo- 
rary command devolved on General Sullivan. The enemy 
landed on the 22d, and advanced on the American lines. 
Washington crossed over to Brooklyn, and finding a want 
uf order in the camp, and the absence of proper discipline. 
he gave the command of Long Island to General Putnam. 
He himself retained the command at New York, not know- 
ing when it might be attacked by the enemy's ships of war. 

8. About nine o'clock in the evening of the 26th, Sir 
Henry Clinton, with a large force, marched through by- 
roads, and silently and early next morning moved through 
the Bedford pass, which had been left unguarded. On the 
right a large force gained possession of the heights, and 
thus the Americans were almost Burrounded, and placed 
between two fires. Some broke through the enemy's lines, 
but many were killed or taken prisoners. Among the latter 
were Generals Sullivan and Stirling. Washington wa,s 
unable to prevent this catastrophe. He now expected that 
the enemy, flushed with victory, would storm the works, and 
prepared for a desperate defence. But the British general 
was unwilling to risk the loss of life which would ensue in 
such an attack. He therefore withdrew his men out of the 
reach of musketry, and encamped for the night. 

0. The next day the British troops encamped in front 
of the American lines, but nothing was attempted. On 



d$ HISTORY OF THE UNITED 8TATf;S. 

the 29th, it appeared evident that the fleet would 
co-operate with the army in surrounding the Ame- 
ricans. Washington therefore procured boats, and in the 
night silently crossed the East River with all his troops, 
artillery, and stores, landing them safely in New York. To 
.the astonishment of the British, on the morning of the 30tli 
not an American soldier remained in Brooklyn. 

10. In a council of officers it was thought advisable U> 
abandon the city, and accordingly the main army withdrev, 
to the rocky heights in the northern part of New York, or 
Manhattan Island. Here a fortification was thrown up oi; 
Harlem Heights. On the 15th of September a strong 
detachment of the British crossed the East River without 
much opposition. A skirmish took place on Harlem Plain !^. 
in which the Americans were victorious. But the British 
>vrere arriving in great numbers, and the Americans aban- 
doned their works on New York Island, with the exception 
of Fort Washington, and proceeded to White Plains. Hero 
a battle ensued on the 28th of October, when the Ameri- 
cans, being outnumbered, were obliged to retreat to their 
intrenchments. 

1 1 . During the night the fortifications were strengthened , 
in expectation of an attack the following day. But "^General 
Howe, when he perceived the strengthened works of the 
Americans, postponed his meditated assault, and threw uj. 
lines and redoubts in front of the American camp, as il' 
preparing to cannonade it. On the night of the Sl.^t, 
Washington retired with his main army to the rocky hills 
of Northcastle, and soon after the whole British army lel't 
White Plains. 

12. On the 12th of November Washine^ton crossed the 



* Irving's Life of Washington, Vol. H., p. 395. 



TUE UK VOLUTION 97 

Hudson, leavino' General Lee in command of the 
troops at Nortlicastle. Soon after, Fort Washing- 
ton was assaulted, and, after a brave resistance, the garrison 
compelled to surrender. Fort Lee was abandoned, and 
Washington, with his dispirited and diminished army, 
sJuccessively retreated through Newark, New Brunswick. 
Princeton, Trenton, and finally to Pennsylvania, closely 
jmrsued by the British to the banks of the Delaware. 

13. General Lee had been directed by the commander- 
in-chief to leave his post, and march to his assistance. But 
it was not until the 4th of December that he crossed the 
Hudson, and then marched in the slowest manner, though 
apprised of the peril of Washington and his army. Finally 
he was surprised and made prisoner by a body of British 
cavalry, and his command devolved on General Sullivan, 
who immediately marched to the relief of General Wash- 
ington. 

14. Congress had adjourned to Baltimore, in consequence 
of the approach of the enemy. The British troops were 
scattered through the different towns in Now Jersey, and their 
commander supposed that the campaign was ended. But 
on the night of the 25th of December, Washington crossed 
the Delaware, eight miles above Trenton, and early the next 
morning attacked the Hessians, who were totally unprepared 
for the assault. Colonel Bahl was mortally wounded, an I 
nearly a thousand were made prisoners. 

15. The prisoners were now transported across the Dela- 
ware, and moved on from town to town, until they reaished 
Winchester, in Virginia. With great exertion, Washington 
induced the troops whose term of enlistment had expired 
to continue in the army. Hard money was needed, and 
Robert Morris, of Philadelphia, obtained the required loan, 
and sent it to camp. Congress invested Washington with 

9 



98 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

unlimited military power, and having rested and 

recruited his army, he again crossed the Delaware 

on the 30th of Decemher, and posted his troops in Trenton, 

while the British and Hessians were stationed at Princeton, 

ten miles distant. 

Questions on the Events of 1776. — 1. What is said of the siejro 
of Boston? What took place on the night of March 2d ? What 
was done by General Thomas ? 

2. What was done by the British on the following night ? What 
prevented the attack ? When was the town evacuated ? What di J 
General Washington do ? 

3. When did General Thomas take command of the army in 
Canada? By whom were ihey attacked? To what place did 
General Thomas retreat, and when did he die ? Who succeeded 
him ? When did the Americans evacuate Canada ? 

4. By whom was an attack made on Charleston ? Who had 
been sent to defend the city? What took place at Sullivan h 
Island ? What was the fort named, and why ? 

5. What was resolved in Congress? When was the Declaration 
of Independence announced to the people? 

6. What did General Howe do on the 2d of July? By whom 
was he joined? By whom reinforced? Whei'e was Gener.-il 
Greene ? 

7. When did the enemy land ? On whom did Washington con- 
fer the command of Long Island ? What command did he retain ? 

8. Describe Sir Henry Clinton's advance. The British forces 
on the right. Between what were the Americans ? What generals 
were taken prisoners ? 

9. What was done by the British the following day? What 
was done by Washington on the 29th ? 

10. Did the American army remain in New York ? Where did 
they throw up a fortification ? What took place here ? Where 
did the army now go ? When and where did a battle take place ? 

11. What did General Howe do on perceiving the strong fortifi- 
cations at White Plains? What did Washington do on the Slst? 

12. Describe Washington's movements of the 12th of November. 



THE REVOLUTION. 99 

What fort was captured? What abandoned? Where did Wash- 
i agio 11 successively retreat? 

13. What orders were given to General Loe ? What misfortune 
happened ? On whom did his command devolve ? 

14. To what place did Congress adjourn ? What did Washington 
do on the night of December 25th? What battle took place on 
the 20th ? Give the result of the battle. 

15 What was done with the prisoners? What power was con- 
ferred on Washington ? W^hat did he do on the oOth of December ? 
Where were the British and Hessians ? 



EVENTS OF 1777. 
1. The commencemeut of the new year found 

1777. "^ 

Washington at Trenton, where he was joined bj 
"he troops under Generals Mifflin and Cadwalader. Towards 
evening of the 2d, Cornwallis, with a strong force from 
Princeton, attacked him. The two armies were on opposite 
sides of a stream which flows through Trenton, and which 
'the enemy mtide repeated attempts to cross. Cornwall is 
felt sure of capturing the American army the next day, 
and desisted for the night. But at midnight Washiugton 
marched with his army by a circuitous route, unpcrceived 
and unsuspected by the enemy. Next morning he was at 
Princeton, where an engagement took place between some 
Uritisb regiments on the way to Trenton, and the advancing 
Americans. The battle was sharp, but soon decided in 
favor of the latter. The British lost one hundred in killed, 
and three hundred prisoners. The American loss was about 
thirty men and several officers, among the latter of whom 
was the brave General Mercer. 

2. Cornwallis, who had heard the American cannon, 
supposed at first that it was thunder; but being sooo 



100 



HISTORY OP THE UNITEb STATES 




FALL OF GENERAL 



undeceived, marched at once on Princeton. But 

1777. 

he arrived too hite. The battle was over, and 
Washington, with his army, was on his way to New Bruns- 
wick, to capture the mihtary stores of the British. But 
tlie enemy was fast approaching in strong force, and the 
Americans were so exhausted, that it was deemed expedient 
to abandon the design, and retreat to the hills of East 
Jersey. Accordingly, Washington established his winter 
quarters at Morristown, whence he sent out detachment's 
to harass the enemy and keep them in a state of siege in 
their quarters at New Brunswick. 

3. The two armies occupied these respective positions 
until the latter end of May. In the mean time small 
detachments were sent out from several points. The prin- 
<^-ipal enterprise was directed against Banbury, Connecticut, 
led by Governor Tryon, at the head of two thousand troops 
(April 2Gth). The town was burned, a great quantity of 
stores belonging to the Americans destroyed, and the inhab- 



THE REVOLUTION. 101 

itant^ cruelly treated. Perceiving the militia as- 

1777. "^ 

sen\)>ling, they retreated, but were attacked, and 
n severe skirmish ensued. The militia were under the 
command of Generals Silliman, Wooster, and Arnold. 
AVooster was mortally wounded in the action, and Arnold 
narrowly escaped, but General Silliman harassed the enemy 
all the way to the coast. 

4. This destructive expedition was soon after retaliated 
for by Colonel Meigs, who, accompanied by one hundred and 
seventy men, crossed Long Island Sound, and attacked the 
enemy at Sag Harbor, near the eastern end of Long Island. 
They burned the British vessels, destroyed the storehouses 
and their contents, took ninety prisoners, and returned to 
Guilford, without the loss of a man of their party. 

5. Towards the end of May, Washington broke up his 
cantonments at Morristown, and encamped at Middlebrook. 
1 1 is army numbered a little over seven thousand men, who 
were now posted in a strong position. On the 12th of June, 
Sir William Howe left New York, and set up his head- 
quarters at New Brunswick. Here he endeavored to bring 
on a general engagement by a number of feigned movements. 
But the American general wisely remained at Middlebrook, 
and General Howe, unable to provoke him to a general 
action, suddenly withdrew his troops to Staten Island, and 
left New Jersey in possession of the Americans. 

6. General Burgoyne, with a large army, now left St. 
John's, in Canada (June 16th), for the purpose of effecting 
a junction with General Howe at New York. lie sent out 
a detachment under Colonel St Leger, who was to land at 
Oswego, ravage the valley of the Mohawk, and join the 
main army at Albany. On the 1st of July he arrived at 
Ticonderoga, which was garrisoned by three thousand men 
under General St. Clair, who, finding his position untenable, 

9* 



102 HISTORY OP TOE UNITED STATES. 

, abandoned the fort, and, with the army, set forward 
on the Vermont side of the lake towards,Hubbardton. 
His stores, and a portion of his troops, with the wounded, 
were sent in boats to Skenesborough (now Whitehall). 

7. The flight of the Americans was unfortunately re- 
vealed to the British by the light of a burning house, and 
a pursuit was immediately commenced. The flotilla was 
overtaken and destroyed, and the main army routed, with a 
loss of more than three hundred men. *" On the 12th, 
St. Clair reached Fort Edward, with his troops haggard and 
exhausted by their long retreat." While these afi"airs were 
transpiring in the north, General Prescott, who commanded 
the British forces in Rhode Island, was surprised and cap- 
tured by Colonel Barton, at the head of forty men. He 
was retained for some time a prisoner, and afterwards 
exchanged for General Lee. 

8. The progress of Burgoyne with his army was very 
glow, in consequence of the obstructions placed in his way 
by General Schuyler, and he did not reach Fort Edward 
until the 30th of July. At his approach General Schuyler 
retired, and took post at Fort Miller, lower down the Hud- 
son, then at Stillwater, and finally at the mouth of the 
Mohawk. In the mean time Colonel St. Leger was besieg- 
ing Fort Schuyler, at the head of the navigable waters of 
the Mohawk. General Herkimer, with a force of militia, 
marched to the relief of the garrison, but was met i\t 
Oriskany by a detachment of tories and Indians. A fierce 
battle ensued, and General Herkimer, with four hundred 
men, was killed. 

9. Arnold soon after advanced to the relief of the be- 
sieged, and, by sending out exaggerated reports of his 

* Irving's Life of Washington, Vol. III., p. 117. 



THE REVOLUTION. 103 

forces, he so terrified the Indians, that they fled, 

1 7T7. . 

and St. Leger was obliged to raise the siege. 
General Burgoyne now sent out an expedition under Colo- 
nel Baum against l^ennington, for the purpose of seizing 
on the stores which the Americans had collected. This 
detachment was met near Bennington by a large body of 
New Hampshire militia, under General Stark. Colonel 
Baum was killed and his party routed. A reinforcement 
of the enemy, under Colonel Bre^nnan, arrived at Benning- 
ton after the battle, who were attacked by Colonel Warner, 
and defeated. The British loss was seven hundred, gene- 
rally prisoners (August IGth). 

10. General Washington was so well convinced that it 
was the intention of General Howe to form a junction with 
Burgoyne, that he advanced with the main army towards 
the Hudson. On the 23d of July the British fleet put out 
to sea, and a number of circumstances led Washington to 
the belief that its destination was Philadelphia, and he set 
cmt with his army to the Delaware. On his way he was' 
informed that the fleet had appeared off the capes, and he 
immediately marched to Philadelphia. Soon after, th^' 
British fleet sailed up the Chesapeake, and the army landed 
near Elkton, and marched towards Philadelphia. Wash- 
ington took a stand at Chad's Ford, on Brandywine 
Oeek, Vt-here he was attacked by the British (Septem- 
ber 11th). The battle lasted through the day, and to- 
wards night the Americans were obliged to retreat to 
Chester, where they rested, and the next day retreated 
to Philadelphia. Congress adjourned to Lancaster, and 
afterwards to York. 

11. In this battle a number of distinguished foreigners 
were engaged. The Marquis Tia Fayette served as a volun- 



104 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

teer, and was severely wounded. Count Pulaski, 

a Polish nobleman, and General Conway, acquitted 

themselves with great credit. The American loss in thi.s 

disastrous battle was, in killed, wounded, and prisoners, 

twelve hundred, and the British near eight hundred. 

12. As soon as Washington's troops were rested, he 
crossed the Schuylkill to oppose General Howe. The two 
armies met and skirmishing ensued, but a heavy rain pre- 
vented a general battle, and the American troops withdrew. 
General Wayne, who had been sent to watch the movements 
of the enemy, was attacked in the night at Paoli, and three 
hundred of his men were killed. General Howe, by a 
sudden movement, crossed the Schuylkill, and encamped 
his army at Germantown, from which place he sent Lord 
Cornwallis, with a large detachment, to take possession of 
Philadelphia. That general marched into the city on the 
2()th of September, with a brilliant staff and escort, and 
followed by some of the finest troops in the British army j 
strongly contrasting with the poor and ill-clothed, but 
determined patriots. 

13. General Schuyler continued his active career as 
chief of the northern army until the arrival of General 
Gates, who had been appointed the commander. Burgoyne 
was in a distressed condition. His Indian allies had 
deserted him, and he found great diflSculty in obtiiining 
provisions. He now crossed the Hudson, and posted his 
army at Saratoga. The American general was at Stillwater, 
and had fortified Bemis' Heights, in the vicinity. On the 
19th of September a battle commenced at three o'clock in 
the afternoon, and continued till night, when the Americans 
retired to their camp, and the British remained on the 
battle-field. Both armies claimed the victory. 



TTIfc REVOLUTION. 105 

14. On the 7th of October. General Burgoyne 
commenced an attack on the American lines 
Colonel Morgan, with his riflemen, was sent to gain posse^^- 
Fion of the heights to the right of the enemy, while General 
Poor, with his brigade, attacked the left. In the midst of 
the action Arnold sallied forth, and, putting himself at th^ 
head of the troops of Learned's brigade, he attacked the Iles- 
.sians in the centre, and broke their ranks with his repeated 
charges. The British then retreated to their intrenchmentH, 
which were desperately assailed by the Americans, with 
Arnold at their head. Arnold's horse was killed under 
him, and he was wounded in the leg and borne off the field, 
but not until the victory was complete. In this battle, 
General Frazer, of the British army, was mortally wounded, 
and died the following morning. 

15. Burgoyne now endeavored to return to Fort Edward, 
but found the Americans had entirely cut off his retreat. 
He therefore sent a note under sanction of a flag to General 
Gates, asking for a cessation of hostilities until terms should 
be mutually agreed upon. The articles of capitulation were 
agreed upon and signed on the 17th of October, by which 
they were allowed a free passage to England, on condition 
of their not serving in America during the war. The whole 
number of the arniy surrendered amounted to five thousan<l 
seven hundred and fifty-two men. " The Americans gained 
a fine train of artillery, seven thousand stand of arms, tent.<-. 
and military stores. 

16. Sir Henry Clinton had sent a detachment along the 
Hudson River to relieve General Burgoyne, but when they 
heard of his surrender they returned to New York. They 
captured some fortre.^ses in the Highlands, burned Esopus, 
and plundered other villages, and behaved more like 



106 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

marauders, than a regular army sent for the reUef 
of their harassed and suffering countrymen. 

17. After the British had obtained possession of Phila- 
delphia, Admiral Howe had brought round his ships from 
the Chesapeake into the Delaware Bay, and moved them up 
as far as the obstructions placed in the river would admit, 
ft now became important to the welfare of the British army 
to remove these obstructions, and reduce the forts com- 
manding the river. For this purpose General Howe sent a 
detachment to New Jersey. General Washington improved 
the opportunity to make an attack on the enemy a,t German- 
town. Success at first waited on the Americans, but a 
party of the enemy threw themselves into a stone house, 
which they barricaded and made good against all attempts. 
Meanwhile the advantages at first gained were lost, and the 
Americans were compelled to retreat (October 4th). 

18. Fort Mercer, at Bed Bank, was assaulted on the 22d 
of October, by a body of Hessians under Count Donop. 
The fort was defended by Colonel Christopher Green. 
After a valiant defence the enemy were repulsed with great 
.slaughter, and the Hessian commander mortally wounded. 
An attack made on Fort Mifflin, immediately opposite, by 
the enemy's shipping, was also unsuccessful. Finally, 
however, a large force sent out by Sir William Howe cap- 
tured the two forts, and removed the obstructions in the 
Delaware (November 18 th). 

19. An attack was made (December 4th) on the camp at 
White Marsh, by General Howe, without success, and soon 
after, the American army, who were in a destitute condition, 
went into winter quarters at Valley Forge, on the Schuylkill. 

Questions on the Events of 1777. — 1. Who joined Washington at 
Trenton ? By whom was he attacked ? How were the two armies 



THE REVOLUTION. 107 

posled? What did Washington do at midnight? What bailie 
took place on the following morning? Who gained the battle? 
What general was killed ? 

2. What did Cornwallis now do ? Where did Washington re- 
tire to winter quarters ? The British ? 

3. Describe the expedition against Danbury. By whom were 
the British assailed in their retreat? What general was slain ? 

4. Describe Colonel Meigs's expedition. 

f). Where did Washington encamp in May? Where did Sir 
William Howe establish his head-quarters? What did he do soon 
afterwards ? ^ 

6. For what purpose did General Burgoyne- leave Canada? 
What took place on his arrival at Ticonderoga ? To what place 
'lid General St. Clair send his stores? 

7. IIow was the flight revealed to the British? What was the 
resqlt? When did. the remaining troops reach Fort Edward? 
By whom was General Prescott captured ? For whom exchanged ? 

8. When did Burgoyne reach Fort Edward ? Where did General 
Schuyler take post? Who was besieging Fort Schuyler, and who 
was sent to its i*elief ? Where did a battle take place, and with 
what result ? 

9. Who now went to the relief of the garrison ? What was St. 
Leger obliged to do ? What expedition was sent out by Burgoyne ? 
What battle ensued ? Who was killed in this battle ? What battle 
took place subsequently ? 

10. Why did General Washington advance towards the Hudson ? 
What did the British fleet do on the 23d of July ? To what place 
did he now march ? Where did the British fleet sail, and where 
did the army land ? Where and when was a battle fought, and 
with what result ? Where did the Americans retreat the next 
day ? To what places did Congress retire ? 

11. What distinguished foreigners assisted the Americans at 
the battle of Brandywine ? 

12. When Washington's troops had rested, what did he do? 
What disaster happened to the troops under General Wayne? 
What did General Howe do ? What general occupied Philadelphia 
with his troops ? 

13. Who succeeded General Schuyler? Where was Burgoyne? 



108 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

>\'here the American general ? What battle took place on the 19th 
of September ? What is said of it ? 

14. Describe the battle of Saratoga. What general was mortally 
wounded? 

15. What was Burgoyne now compelled to do ? What were the 
terms of the capitulation ? What number surrendered ? What 
stores came into the possession of the Americans ? 

16. What was effected by the expedition sent to relieve Bui- 
goyne ? 

17. To what river did Admiral Howe remove his ships? De- 
scribe the battle of Germantown. 

18. By whom and when was Fort Mercer assaulted? By whom 
was it defended ? What was the result ? " Who was mortally 
wounded ? What other fort was attacked ? Were the forts after- 
wards captured ? Give the date. 

19. Where were the Americans attacked by General Howe, 
December 4th ? Where did the army retire to winter quarters ? 



EVENTS OF 1778. 

1. Never was a greater contrast presented in the annals 
of war, tlian between the two contending armies. The 
British in elegant quarters in the city of Philadelphia, 
living in luxury, in ease, and the indulgence of licentious 
revelry ; the Americans in log huts at Valley Forge, ill- 
clothed, worse fed, and suffering every privation. It re- 
quired all Washington's influence to retain his army in 
camp, and to provide them with food. 

2. Towards the latter end of February, Baron 

Steuben arrived in camp, and commenced training 

the army in the discipline and manoeuvres of the battle- 

field He was successful in his course of instruction, and. 

from a mass of untrained militia, he raised up a disciplined 



THE REVOLUTION-. 109 

army, fit to compete with the trained veterans of 
Europe. Provisions now arrived in plenty, clothing 
was furnished, and the spring commenced under favorable 
aispices for the camp at Valley Forge. Early in May, 
intelligence arrived that a treaty had been signed at Paris. 
by wliich the French government entered into an alliance 
rith the United States. 

o. The British government now oiFcrcd terras of concilia- 
tion to the Americans, but, as they did not agree to tho 
independence of the United States, they were as promptly 
rejected. Sir William Howe resigned his command, and 
Sir Ilenry Clinton, his successor, took command of the 
yrmy in Philadelphia, on the 11th of May. Philadelphia 
was an unsafe position for the British army, since the 
alliance with France, and orders were given to withdraw 
the troops to New Yorvk. On the 18 th of June, the whole 
British army evacuated the city, crossing the river Delaware 
ill boats, and marching along its eastern bank. 

4. Washington immediately broke up his camp at Valley 
Forge, and, making a considerable circuit, crossed the Dela- 
ware at Coryell's Ferry, the same place from which he had 
niarclied eighteen months before to attack the enemy at 
Trenton. Ou the morning of the 28th of June, an attack 
was made ou the enemy at Monmouth Court House, now 
Freehold. General Lee led the van, and Washington came 
up to sust-iiin him with the main army, 

5. A.S Washington drew near the scene of action, he met 
Lee and the whole detachment in full retreat. He checked 
t urth ir retreat, repro\'cd Lee for his conduct, and ordered 
bim (0 le;id hln troops against the enemy. The battle was 
now icsuracd, and continued through the day. Washington 
intended to attack the enemy on the following morning, but 
at daybreak, when ttie army were roused for action, th© 

10 



lie HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

1778 ^°^™y ^^^ disappeared, having withdrawn to Sandy 
Hook, whence they embarked for New York. The 
enemy lost three hundred killed and one hundred prisoners. 
The Americans seventy killed and one hundred and sixty 
wounded. Many died from the extreme heat of the weather, 
and the fatigue endured on the battle-field. 

6. After Washington had rested his troops, he led them 
to White Plains. General Lee was charged before a court- 
martial with '' disobedience of orders, misbehavior in making 
a disorderly retreat, and disrespect to the commander-in- 
chief.'^ He was found guillty of the charges against him, 
and suspended from his command for one year. He never 
again returned to the service. 

7. On the 8th of July a French fleet arrived off the coast, 
and anchored at the mouth of the Delaware. It consisted 
of twelve ships of the line and six frigates, and a land forc« 
of four thousand men under Count D'Estaing. A combina- 
tion was entered into by the American and French com- 
manders to recapture Rhode Island (that is, the island 
which gives name to the state), which the enemy had 
fortified, and made one of their strongholds. General 
Sullivan, with a detachment, landed on the island, and 
found the British works at its northern point abandoned. 
The French commander was about ordering out his boats to 
commence the attack on Newport, when a British fleet 
appeared in sight. The French immediately put out to 
sea to attack the enemy, but were prevented from doing so 
by a violent storm. 

8. On the return to Newport, the shattered condition of 
the French fleet prevented its commander from assisting 
General Sullivan, who raised the siege, and retired in the 
night to the north part of the island. Here a skirmish 
ensued; when the British withdrew, and kept up a cannonade 



THE REVOLUTION. Ill 

on the American works until night. The firing 
was renewed the following day, but at night General 

Sullivan withdrew his whole army from the island, unper- 

eeived by the enemy. 

9, The war, as now carried on by the enemy, was a series 
of plunders and massacres. A detachment of cavalry wa« 
^*arprised in the night at Old Tappan, by General Grey, 
and bayonetted without mercy. A number, however, es- 
caped, through the compassion of one of the British captains. 
An expedition against Little Egg Harbor demolished the 
public stores, and wantonly destroyed private property. Au 
expedition, led by tories and Indians, attacked the settlement 
at A\^yoming, Pennsylvania, massacred the inhabitants, and 
laid waste their beautiful settlement. Another massacre 
took place at Cherry Valley, New York, by tories and 
Indians, and Captain Ferguson surprised a portion of Pu- 
laski's legion while sleeping, and wantonly butchered fifty 
on the spot. 

10. An expedition was now sent from New York to 
invade Georgia, commanded by Colonel Campbell. He 
landed his troops near Savannah, on the 29th of December, 
where he was met by a small force under General Robert 
Howe, which was totally routed. The British then took 
possession of Savannah, with a quantity of cannon, military 
stores, and provisions. The army under General Washington 
now went into cantonments for the winter, the head-quartens 
b*;ing established njar Middlebrook, New Jersey. 

Questions on the Events of 1778. — 2. Who arrived in camp, and 
what did he commence ? What was the result ? What treaty was 
signed at Paris? 

3. What terms did the British government ofTer? Why were 
t(bey rejected? When did the British evacuate Philadelphia? 



112 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

4. What did Washington now do ? What battle took place, an* 
when? 

6. Why did Washington reprove Lee, and what did he order ! 
TIow long did the battle continue ? To what place did the British 
withdraw ? 

6. After Washington had rested his troops, to what place did 
he withdraw ? What charges were made against General Lee. 
and what was the sentence of the court ? 

7. When and where did a French fleet arrive ? What town was 
besieged by General Sullivan ? What prevented the French fleet 
from assisting him ? 

8. To what place did Sullivan withdraw his troops ? What took 
place here ? 

9. What was the character of the war now carried on by the 
enemy ? 

10. Who commanded the expedition sent from New York Lt> 
invade Georgia? When did he land? Who commanded the 
Americans ? Of what did the British take possession ? Where 
were the head-quarters of Washington's army during the winter ? 



EVENTS OF 1779. 
1 . After the battle whicli ended in the capture 

1779« * 

of Savannah, the x\merican army retreated to South 
Carolina. General Prevost, with an army from Floridar, 
took Suubury, and marched to Savannah, where he assumed 
the command. Augusta was captured by Colonel Campbell, 
and by the middle of January the whole of Georgia wa8 
reduced to submission. 

2. General Lincoln, an experienced officer, who had been 
appointed to the command of the army in the south, took 
command of his forces on the Savannah Elver, soon after 
the capture of Savannah, and waited for a favorable oppor- 



THE REVOLUTION. 113 

tuuity to strike a blow iu favor of the slnkin"; cause. 

1779. . . ^ 

In the mean time a company of tories, which was 
marching to the British camp, was met at Kettle Creek, 
and, after a desperate engagement, was totally routed by a 
body of militia under Colonel Pickens. Colonel Boyd and 
about seventy of the tories were killed, and seventy-five 
taken prisoners, of whom five vfore hanged as traitors. 

3. Early in March, General Lincoln sent General Ash, 
with two thousand men, against the British in Georgia. 
General Ash took post at Brier Creek, where he was sur^ 
prised by General Prevost and put to flight, with a loss of 
nearly five hundred men. About the same time, Prevost 
sent a detachment against Port Royal, which was defeated 
by General Moultrie, with severe loss. General Lincoln 
now crossed with his army into Georgia, with the intention 
of attacking the British at Savannah, but learning that 
General Prevost was laying siege to Charleston, he hastened 
fco the relief of that city. On the approach of Lincoln, the 
British general withdrew his troops to the island of St. 
John's, separated from the main land by Stono lliver. 
Lincoln attacked a division posted at Stono Ferry, but was 
repulsed. The British soon after established a post at 
Beaufort, on the island of Port Eoyal, and the main body 
retired to Savannah. 

4. In May, Virginia became the scene of predatory war- 
fare. Portsmouth and Norfolk were plundered, and a vaat 
a^mouttt of public and private property wantonly destroyed. 
The infamous Tryon soon afterwards, with a band of merce- 
naries, laid wdste the country in Connecticut adjoining the 
coast, robbing and ill-treating the defenceless inhabitants, 
and wantonly burning the towns of Fairfield and Norwalk. 

5. The capture of Stony Point, on the Hudson, by General 
Wayne, was one of the most succe.ssful achievements of the 

10* 



IM 



EISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 



war. It was a strong fortress, and garrisoned by 
six hundred troops. On the 15th of Julj, Wayne 
arrived near the fort without being discovered. The assault 
was made at midnight by the troops, in two columns, who 
advanced with charged bayonets, overcame every obstacle, 
and captured the fort without firing a single gun. The 
garrison surrendered at discretion, after a brave but un 
availing resistance. The fort was then dismantled and 
abandoned, the Americans securing the cannon and military 
stores. 

6. Another daring exploit was achieved by Colonel Lee, 
in the surprise of the fort at Paulus Hook, on the Hudson, 
immediately opposite New York. Favored by the negli- 
gence of the garrison, they entered the fort in the silence 
of the night, and made themselves masters of the post before 
the garrison awakened from their slumbers. Lee immedi- 
ately withdrew, with one hundred and fifty-nine prisoners. 
But few were killed, as there was little fighting, and no 
massacre. 

7. Several expeditions were sent against the Indians, the 
most signal of which was that conducted by General Sulli- 
van. He left the desolated region of Wyoming with hh 
troops, and marched into the country of the Senecas. A 
battle took place at Newton (now Elmira) on the 29th of 
August, when the Indians and tories were defeated, and the 
country laid waste to the Genesee River. General Sullivan 
having accomplished his object, returned with his troops to 
Easton. The thanks of Congress were voted to him and 
his gallant army. 

8. During the summer the American commissioners at 
Paris fitted out a squadron, the command of which was 
given to Paul Jones, who captured a number of vessels in 
the North Sea. On the 23d of September, near Flani- 



THE REVOLUTION. 115 

borough Head, on the English coast, he encountered 
the British ships Serapis, of forty-four, and the 
Countess of Scarborough, of twenty guns. A severe and 
bloody battle ensued, which continued for three hours^ when 
the Serapis struck her colors. The Countess of Scarborough 
was captured by the Pallas, and the prizes carried into 
Holland. 

9. A formidable fleet under the command of Count 
D'Estaing now appeared on the coast of Georgia, and joined 
with General Lincoln in besieging the British at Savannah. 
On the 9th of October, Lincoln and D'Estaing advanced to 
storm the works. The assault was gallant, but unsuccessful ; 
the assailants were repulsed, with a loss to the French of six 
hundred men, and the Americans four hundred. D'Estaing 
was woundfed j Count Pulaski and the brave Sergeant Jasper 
were slain. The Americans now recrossed the river into 
South Carolina, and the French re-embarked. 

10. In November, Washington's army went into winter 
quarters, one division under General Heath in the High- 
lands of the Hudson, for the protection of West Point and 
other posts. The head-quarters were established near 
Morristown, New Jersey. 

Questions on the Events of 1779. — 1. To what state did the army 
retire? What was captured by General Prevost? By Colonel 
Campbell ? 

2. Who took command of the army in the south ? What battle 
took place? Who commanded the Americans in the battle of 
Kettle Creek ? 

3. What did Lincoln and Ash do in March ? What took place 
.•vt Brier Creek? At Port Royal? At Stono Ferry ? 

4. What towns in Virginia were plundered ? Wlio laid waste 
the sea coast of Connecticut ? What towns were burned ? 

6. Who captured Stony Point ? Describe the assault and oap- 
lure. What is said of the achievement? 



116 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. What fort was taken by Colonel Lee ? Describe the capture. 

7. Who marched against the Indians? When and -where did a 
battle take place ? How far was the country laid waste ? 

8. When and where did a naval engagement take place ? Who 
commanded the American squadron, and what British vessels 
were captured ? 

9. Who commanded a French fleet on the coast of Georgia ? 
With whom did he unite ? When was Savannah assaulted ? What 
was the result ? Who are mentioned as among the wounded and 
slain ? 

10. When and where did Washington's army go into winter 
quarters ? 



EVENTS OF 1780. 

1. This year opened ou distressed aud almost 
famishing soldiers. The winter was one of unusual 
severity, and the army in the tuts near Morristown suffered 
from want of blankets and clothing. They were also fre- 
quently without meat, often without bread, and sometimes 
without both. If it had not been for the kindness of the 
neighboring farmers, who furnished supplies, the army 
could not have subsisted. 

2. Sir Henry Clinton now left New York with a large 
body of troops, in a fleet commanded by Admiral Arbutlinot, 
for the invasion of South Carolina. Early in April lie 
commenced the siege of Charleston, which was defended by 
General Lincoln. He now sent out Colonel Webster to 
break up some posts occupied by the Americans. One of 
those posts, at Monk's Corner, was surprised and taken by 
Colonel Tarleton, who commanded Webster's advanced 
guard. This achievement shut off Charleston from all 
supplies (April 14th). 

3. The siege of Charleston was continued with great 



THE REVOLUTION. 117 

vigor. Fort Moultrie surrendered, and General 
Lincoln, finding no relief, capitulated, and the city 
fell into the hands of the enemy (May 12th). A body of 
Americans, under command of Colonel Buford, was over- 
taken on the banks of the Waxhaw, by Colonel Tarleton, 
and, after being defeated, were butchered, after they had 
laid down their arms. Colonel Buford and some of hivs 
cavalry escaped. Having struck a blow which he supposed 
reduced the south to absolute submission, Sir Henry Clinton 
embarked with part of his forces for New York, leaving 
Cornwallis to carry the war into North Carolina, and then 
into Virginia (June 5th). 

4. New Jersey was now invaded by a large body of troops 
under command of General Knyphausen, who landed at 
Elizabethtown Point. The American troops sent to oppose 
him made a stand at Springfield, where a severe engage- 
ment took place. The British outnumbered the Americana, 
but the latter being strongly posted, and reinforcements 
advancing, the British general retreated, and during the 
night passed over to Staten Island (June 23d). 

5. Washington now moved with his army to the High- 
lands, and resumed his measures for the security of West 
Point. On the 10th of July, a large French fleet, with 
five thousand troops, arrived at Newport, in Rhode Island. 
It was intended to attack New York with the combined 
forces, but a fleet arrived from England which gave the 
guperiority to the British arms, and the proposed attack was 
for the present abandoned. 

6. In the south, thou;'h for a time no opposition was 
made to British rule, symptoms of revolt at length were 
manifested. Bold and determined leaders only were needed. 
and one was soon found in Colonel Sumter, who made several 
attacks on the enemy. The post at Hanging Rock was 



118 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 

captured, and a body of British and tories defeated 
(August 6th). The Baron de Kalb, at the head 
of the Maryland division, who had been detached to Caro- 
lina, made but slow progress, for want of supplies. On the 
25th of July, General Gates, who had been appointed to 
command the southern army, arrived, and immediately 
marched towards Camden, South Carolina, and on the 13th 
of August encamped at Clermont, twelve miles distant. 

7. On the approach of Gates, Lord Rawdon concentrated 
his forces at Camden, where he was joined by Cornwallis'. 
On the evening of the 15th-, General Gates moved with his 
main force to Sanders' Creek, seven miles from Camden. 
Here they encountered the British army, which had sallied 
out in the night to attack them at Clermont, A skirmish 
ensued, which lasted but a short time, when both armies 
halted, and waited for daylight, to renew hostilities. At 
daybreak (August 16th), the enemy advanced, and put the 
militia to flight. The regular troops stood their ground, 
and fought with great bravery, but were at length compelled 
to give way. Baron de Kalb, while exerting himself to 
the utmost to prevent the loss of this battle, fell, aftei 
receiving eleven wounds. 

8. On the evening before the battle of Sanders' Creek, 
Colonel Sumter had made a successful attack on a post of 
the enemy on the Wateree, and captured one hundred 
prisoners and forty loaded wagons. Tarleton was sent 
against him, and coming to his camp at a time when his 
troops were resting from their fatigues, the Americans 
were surprised, and able to make but a feeble resistance. 
Between three and four hundred were killed and wounded 
and all their arms and baggage fell into the hands of th« 
enemy (August 18th). 

9. We have now to narrate the most sorrowful event in 



THE REVOLUTION. 119 

the history of the Revolution — an event which 
brings up sad recollections both to British and Ame- 
ricans. It is the treason of Arnold, and the fate of Andrt'. 
We have recited the bravery, the enterprise, the military 
skill of the hero of Quebec, of Saratoga, and the brave 
warrior of many a battle-field. We must reverse the pic- 
ture, and, instead of a patriot, behold a traitor. 

10. After the evacuation of Philadelphia in 1778, Arnold 
was stationed in that city as military governor. Here ho 
lived in an extravagant style, and, by his arrogance, raised 
up many enemies. He was charged before a court-martini 
with misconduct, fraud, and the granting certain privileges 
to disaffected persons. Though nothing fraudulent wa,«: 
proved against him, the transactions in which he was in- 
volved were pronounced " irregular, contrary to the articles 
of war, imprudent, and reprehensible j" and the court sen- 
tenced him to be reprimanded by the commander-in-chief 

11. The reprimand administered by Washington was one 
of delicacy and kindness, and ought to have sunk into his 
heart. But from the moment of his sentence by the court- 
martial, he seemed bent on vengeance. Dissembling his 
hatred to his country, he asked for the command at West 
Point, which was conferred upon him. His head-quartcrsi 
were at Beverly,* on the eastern side of the river, and 
opposite to West Point. Here he carried on a secret 
correspondence with Major Andrd, General Clinton's aide- 
de-camp, under the assumed names of Gustavus and Jolin 
Anderson, offering to betray West Point and the post,^ in 
the Highlands to Sir Henry Clinton. 

12. In order to complete this nefarious business, it now 
became necessary for Arnold and Andre to hold a persona/ 

* Commonly called the Robinson House. 



120 HISTORY OF THB UNITED STATES. 




IXTEBYI£W BETWSES ARITOLD KUD ANClt^ 



IT80. 



interview. Andre left New York, and went on board 
the Yulture, which lay at anchor in the Hudson. 
Here at midnight Arnold sent a boat to convey him to the 
west side of the river. Arnold was in waiting to receive 
him, and the conference lasted until near daybreak. A:^ 
Arnold feared that sending the boat back to the ship might 
excite suspicion, he prevailed on Andre to remain on shore 
<luring the day. 

13. The two conspirators now repaired to the house of 
Joshua Smith, a tory, who was aiding Arnold iu his designs. 
Here the bargain for the betrayal of West Point was com- 
pleted, and Arnold returned in his barge to head-quart€rs. 
He suggested to Andre a return by land, and furnished 
him with the following pass : 

" Permit Mr. John Anderson to pass the guards to the 
White Plains, or below if he chooses ; he being on public 
business by my direction. 

" B, Arnold, Major-General." 



THE REVOLUTION. 121 

IL As Smith refused to put Andr6 on board 
*^*°' the Vulture, he left his place of concealineut about 
sunset, having exchanged his military coat for a citizen's, 
and crossed the river to King's Ferry, when he proceeded 
•m horseback towards New York. He passed unmolested 
through the American lines by means of his passport, until 
lie came near Tarrytown. Here he' was stopped by three 
militia men armed with muskets. The first one who hailed 
him wore a refugee uniform, which led Andre to suppose 
he was among friends, and he declared at once that he was 
a British officer, on urgent business, and must not be 
detained a single moment. They then declared themselvej* 
to be Americans, and told Andre he was their prisoner. 

15. They proceeded to search him, and found concealed 
papers in his boots, which satisfied them he was a spy. He 
otfered his horse, watch, and one hundred guineas, if they 
would let him go. But they were patriots, refused all hi& 
offers, and led him as a prisoner to Colonel Jameson, at 
Northcastle. By request of Andre, Jameson wrote to 
Arnold that Anderson was a prisoner. Arnold was at 
breakfast when the letter arrived ; the commander-in-chief 
was expected every moment, and the traitor would soon be 
exposed. Calling his wife aside, he told her that '• he wa* 
a ruined man, and that he must fly for his life." Thus 
saying, he left the apartment, mounted a horse ready sad- 
dled, and fled to the river. Here throwing himself into 
his barge, he directed his men to row to the A'ulture, whicB 
ho entered as a traitor and renegade. 

IG. Major Andr^ was arraigned before a court-martial 
tried as a spy, and being convicted, was hanged on the 2d 
of October. He was universally lamented, both by the 
British and Americans, and Sir Henry Clinton used every 
exertion to induce Washington t^) spare his life. But the 
11 



122 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

stern usages of war, and the safety of the country, 
required the sacrifice. It was suggested to Sir 
Henry Clinton that Andre would be set at liberty if Arnold 
were given up. But the proposition was rejected, as in- 
compatible with honor and military principle. The captor.'-^ 
of Andr^ were John Paulding, Isaac Van Wart, and David 
Williams. Congress, by a formal vote, expressed a high 
sense of their virtuous and patriotic conduct; awarded lo 
ench of them a farm, a pension for life of two hundred 
dollars, and a silver medal, bearing on one side a shield. 
with the word Fidelity, and on the other the motto Vinn'l 
amor Patrup. These medals were presented to them by 
General Washington at his head-quarters. 

17. In the south Cornwallis had established a military 
despotism, and used the most oppressive measures to coerce 
the people to submit to royal authority. But these violent 
measures foiled of their object, for the people only waited 
for a favorable opportunity to assert their freedom. Colonel 
Ferguson, who liad been sent with a body of troops, princi- 
pally tories, to sweep the country, was attacked by a body of 
hardy mountaineers and backwoodsmen on King's Mountain, 
where he had made a stand. The assailants ascended the 
mountain in three divisions, and were at first driven back 
by the fixed bayonets of the enemy, who in turn were 
attacked by the Americans on every side. At last Colonel 
Ferguson was killed, and the enemy surrendered, with a 
lass of three hundred killed and wounded, and eight hun- 
dred prisoners (October 7th). 

18. General Marion, a partisan leader, annoyed the 
British outposts, and manoeuvred so skilfully that he avoided 
the strong parties of the enemy sent in pursuit of him. On 
the 12th of October, Major Wemys,s made an attack on 
Sumter at Broad River, but the British were defeated, and 



THE REVOLUTION. 12^ 

their commander taken prisoner. Tarleton was 
now sent in pursuit of Sumter, and overtook him 
on the 20th of November at Blackstock, on the Tyger 
lliver. A battle ensued, but the British sustained a severe 
loss, and retired, leaving the Americans victors on the field. 
General Sumter was severely wounded in this battle. 

19. After General Gates had been defeated, he retired 
with the remains of his army to Charlotte, North Carolina, 
where he was soon after informed by ofBeial despatches that 
Creneral Greene would supersede him in command. General 
Greene arrived in camp on the 2d of December, aiid made 
preparations for strengthening his army, introducing disci- 
pUne, and obtaining needful supplies, but no encounter took 
place with the enemy until January. In the latter part of 
this year, Great Britain declared war against Holland, for 
the encouragement that nation had given to American 
privateers. War had previously been declared against 
France and Spain. 

Questions on the Events of 1780.— 1. What is said of the winter, 
and from what causes did the soldiers suffer ? 

2. Who invaded South Carolina? When was Charleston be- 
sieged ? By whom was it defended ? What American post was 
taken, and what did its capture effect ? 

3. What fort surrendered? What was General Lincoln com- 
pelled to do? What is said of Colonel Buford's detachment? 
Whom did Sir Henry Clinton leave in South Carolina ? 

4. By whom was New Jersey invaded ? Where did an engage- 
ment take place ? Give the result. 

5. To what place did Washington remove? What arrived ai 
N cwport ? 

6. Who made attacks on the enemy in the south ? What is said 
of the Baron de Kalb ? Geneval Gates ? 

7. What was done by Lord Rawdon ? To what place did 



124 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

General Gates move his army ? When did the battle take place ? 
Describe the battle. What is said of De Kalb ? 

8. What was done by Colonel Sumter ? Who was sent against, 
him ? Give the result. 

9. What is the most sorrowful event in the Rcvuhition ? What 
is said of Arnold ? 

10. What office did Arnold hold in 1778? Wliat charges were 
made against him? What decision was given by the court- 
martial, and what sentence? 

11. What effect was produced on Arnold? What command 
was conferred upon him ? With whom did he carry on a cor- 
respondence ? What assumed names were used by the parties ? 

12. What became necessary on behalf of the conspirators? 
What did Andr«3 do ? Arnold ? Where was the conference held ? 

13. Relate the incidents of the following day. What was re- 
quired by the pass ? By whom was it signed ? 

14. What did Andr6 now do ? By whom was he stopped ? 
Why did he suppose his captors to belong to the British ? 

15. What was found in his boots ? To whom and where did 
they take him ? What did he write to Arnold ? What did Arnold 
do on receipt of the letter ? 

16. What became of Andr6? What were the names of his 
captors ? What did Congress express by their vote ? W^hat was 
awarded to them ? 

17. What had Gornwallis established? Describe the battle 
of King's Mountain. Who was killed, and how many were 
prisoners ? 

18. What is said of General Marion? Major Wemyss ? De- 
scribe the battle of Blackstock. 

19. Where did General Gates retire ? By whom was he super- 
Beded? Against what nation did Great Britain declare war? 
With what other nations was she at war previously ? 



THE REVOLUTION. 125 



EVENTS OF 1781, AND CLOSE OF THE REVOLUTION. 

1. The uew year was uslierecl in with a painful 
event. On the Ist of January, the Pennsylvania 
line stationed at Morristown turned out under arms, refused 
obedience to orders, and declared their intention to march 
to Philadelphia, and demand redress of grievances from 
Congress. When they had marched as far as Princeton, a 
committee from Congress met them, and induced them to 
agree to a compromise, by which their wants were relieved, 
and provision made for their being paid in full. 

2. A large body of troops had been sent by Sir Henry 
Clinton to invade Virginia, and Benedict Arnold, now a 
brigadier-general in the British service, was appointed to 
the command. He landed on the James River, twenty-j&ve 
miles from Richmond, on the 4th of January, aiid, on the 
following day, marched into the capital, after a feeble 
opposition. Here he destroyed the public edifices, stores, 
and workshops, and private property to a large amount. 
He then went down the river, and then to Portsmouth, 
where he took post on the 20th of January. 

3. General Greene, who now had command of the southern 
army, was encamped at Charlotte, North Carolina. He sent 
General Morgan, with a division one thousand strong, to 
take post near the Broad River, in the western part of South 
Carolina. Tarleton was sent against him with a force of 
eleven hundred men. He came up with Morgan at a place 
known as the Cowpens. The attack was made by Tarleton 
(January 17th). In the commencement of the battle, some 
of Morgan's troops gave way, but they soon rallied and at- 
tacked the enemy with such fury, that they were completely 

11* 



126 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

routed, and a "-eneral flii'-lit took place. The loss 
1781. ' fe n r 

of the British in this battle was ten officers and 
one hundred men killed, and five hundred prisoners, while 
the loss of the Americans was twelve killed and sixt;y 
wounded. 

4. Morgan did not remain long on the battle-field. The 
same day at noon he set out with his prisoners and spoils. 
Before night set in he -crossed the Broad Kiver, and early 
the next morning he started for the Catawba. As soon as 
Coruwallis heard of the defeat of Tarleton, he sent out part 
of his force in pursuit, while he followed with the main 
army and baggage (January 19th). But finding the latter 
impeded his march, he destroyed all the baggage and stores 
that could be spared, and continued his pursuit. Morgan 
succeeded in crossing the Catawba two hours before the 
enemy arrived on its banks. A heavy rain fell through 
the night, and the river was so swollen as to be impassable 
(January 29th). 

5. Two days after. General Greene arrived, took the 
command, and continued the retreat. As soon as the 
waters subsided, Cornwallis with his army crossed the 
Catawba, though his passage was contested by the Carolina 
militia. These, however, were dispersed by the British, 
and their commander, General Davidson, was killed (Fel>- 
ruary 1st). The Americans now crossed the river Yadkin, 
but lost some wagons which were taken by the van of the 
British army. That night the rain poured down in torrents, 
and the river was unfordable. 

6. General Greene now pressed forward for the river 
Dan, and Lord Cornwallis pursued with the hope of inter- 
cepting him before he could cross that river. But General 
Greene had secured boats to ferry his troops across, which 
be accomplished successfully, thus placing a deep river 



THE REVOLUTION. 127 

between himself and his pursuers. The Tlritish 
were mueh vexed to find " that all their toil and 

exertions had been vain, and that all their hopes were 

frustrated."* 

7. The pursuit of the British ended at the Dan Kivev, 
and Lord Cornwallis, after a day's rest, inarched ofl' with 
his army, and, on the 20th, took post at Hillsborough. 
General Greene soon after recrossed the Dan River, and 
after several skirmishes with his light troops and the enemy's 
foraging parties, he reached Guilford Court House (March 
15th), and the same day was attacked by Cornwallis. The 
enemy advanced in three columns. In the early part of 
the battle the North Carolina militia took to flight, and 
although there was intrepid fighting in different parts of 
the field, it became evident to General Greene that the day 
was lost; and he therefore directed a retreat, which was 
made in good order. 

8. Soon after the battle Cornwallis retreated towards 
Wilmington, North Carolina, closely pursued by General 
Greene, who, being unable to overtake him, changed hiii 
course, and marched into South Carolina. Cornwallis now 
marched with his army to Wilmington, and, after a short 
delay, set out to Virginia (April 25th). In the mean time 
General Greene arrived at Ilobkirk's Hill, two miles from 
Lord Ilawdon's post at Camden. Here a hard-fought battle 
took place on the 25th of April, but through a false move 
of a portion of the troops, Greene was obliged to retreat. 

9. In the mean time Colonel Lee and General Marion 
captured Fort Watson and Fort Motte. Colonel Lee cap- 
tured Fort Granby, and marched to the aid of Colonel 
Pickens in the siege of Augusta, while General Greene 

* Annual Register, 1781. 



128 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

commenced the siege of the strong fortress of 

Ninety-Six. Hearing of the approach of Lord 

Uawdon, he made an assault on the fort (June 18th). 

After a severe contest the stockaded fort was taken, but 

the troops were repulsed from the main works. 

10. We left Arnold at Portsmouth with his forces, where 
he had taken post in January. In March, General Phillips 
was sent to Virginia, with an array of two thousand five 
hundred men. He joined Arnold, and took the chief com- 
mand. He then ravaged the country, took Petersburg, 
and proceeded towards Richmond, but found that General 
La Fayette was there with a strong force. After burning 
the stores, and destroying property at Manchester, they 
returned to Petersburg. Here General Phillips died, and 
the command again devolved on Arnold. Lord Cornwallis 
arrived on the 20th of May, and took command of the 
army. 

11. The first object of Lord Cornwallis was to strike a 
blow at General La Fayette, who was then at Richmond, 
where he was waiting for the arrival of General Wayne. 
On his approach to Richmond, La Fayette left that place, 
and retreated until he was joined by General Wayne and 
nine hundred soldiers of the Pennsylvania line. He now 
pursued Cornwallis, who retreated to Williamsburg, and 
soon after to Portsmouth. But not liking Portsmouth, he 
embarked with his army, and sailed for Yorktown, which 
he fortified Gloucester Point, on the opposite side of the 
York River, had likewise been fortified (August 22d). 

12. It was now Washington's intention to attack the 
]>ritish in New York, in which enterprise he was to be 
assisted by the French troops. But receiving despatches 
from Count de Grasse that Jie should leave St. Domingo 
with a large fleet^ and a considerable body of land forces, 



THE RKVOLUTION. 129 

and steer for the Chesapeake, he determined to 
move to Virginia, and postpone his attack on New 
York. The whole of the French army near New York, 
and about two thousand of the American, under command 
of General Wa^<hington, assisted by Count de llochambeau, 
now marched up the Hudson River, crossed at King's 
Ferry, and marched down through New Jersey, thence 
crossed the Delaware on their way to Virginia. 

13. Clinton was not aware of the destination of the allied 
troops till they had crossed the Delaware. As a sort of 
counterplot, therefore, he sent Arnold on an expedition to 
(yonneoticut. On the 6th of September the latter appeared 
off the harbor of New London, and landed his troops in two 
divisions. He met with little opposition, but a detachment 
sent against Fort Griswold, on the opposite side of the 
river, sustaiued a severe contest. At last the garrison wa.= 
overpowered by the enemy, and cruelly massacred, after 
they had thrown down their arms. Arnold now entered 
New London and set fire to the stores, which communicating 
to the dwellings, the whole place was wrapped in flames. 
He now retreated to his boats, and was pursued by the 
exasperated countrymen, whose vengeance he escaped, 
although several of his men were wounded. This expe- 
dition ended Arnold's infamous career in his native land, 
and thenceforth he appears no more in the annals of 
history (September 6th). 

14. General Greene, who had been encamped for weeks 
during the heats of July and x\ugust, on the high nills of 
the Santee, broke up his encampment on the 22d of August 
to march against Colonel Stuart. He encountered the 
enemy on the 8th of September at Eutaw Springs. A 
desperate battle cnsned, lasting near four hours, when the 
enemy wc'c completely routed, and a large number oi* 



ISO HISTORY OF THE TJNITED STATES. 

prisoners takea by the Americans. After the 
battle appeared, however, to be decided, a number 
of the enemy opened a destructive fire from a brick house 
forming part of their encampment. General Greene, finding 
his ammunition nearly exhausted, gave up the attempt to 
dislodge the enemy, who retired in the night, and marched 
to Monk's Corner, twenty-five miles from Charleston. 

15. Lord Cornwallis, who had fortified Yorktown and 
Gloucester Point, deemed himself perfectly secure against 
all attacks of the Americans. He was aroused from his 
fancied security by the appearance of the fleet of Count do 
Grasse at the mouth of York River, and the landing of a 
French army. Count de Barras, with a large reinforcement, 
arrived soon after, and though Admiral Graves with a 
British fleet had attacked the French ships, he was unable 
to prevent their obtaining full command of the Chesapeake. 

16. Washington reached Williamsburg, September 14th, 
and by the 25th the American and French troops had 
arrived and encamped near that town. The allied armres 
soon after marched for Yorktown, and by the 1st of 
October completely invested the place. They then threw 
up a parallel line of fortifications, which was completed on 
the 9th, when the batteries poured in a destructive fire 
upon the town. On the night of the 11th a second parallel 
was opened within three hundred yards of the works. The 
British kept up an incessant fire, and as two redoubts of 
the enemy particularly annoyed the besiegers, it was resolved 
to capture them. This was efi"ected by a party of Americans 
storming one, and a detachment of French the other. 
Cornwallis was now reduced to great distress, and, as his 
post was no longer tenable, he attempted to escape by 
means of boats across the river. Part of his army suc- 
ceeded in crossing, but a storm scattered the boats with the 



THE REVOLUTION. 131 

second detachment, and obliged him to relinquish 
his design. His hopes were now at an end, and 
/)n the 17th he sent a flag to General Washington, proposing 
a cessation of hostilities. This was acceded to, and com- 
missioners appointed to arrange the terms of capitulation. 
These were signed on the 19th of October, when the posts 
of Yorktown and Gloucester were surrendered to General 
Washington, and the ships of war to the Count de Gra&so. 
On the very day of the surrender of Cornwallis, Sir Henry 
Clinton left New York with a large fleet and army for his 
relief, and arrived off the capes on the 24th, when, finding 
that Yorktown had fallen, he returned to New York. 

17. The rejoicings in the victorious camp extended 
throughout the Union. *" Cornwallis is taken !" was uttered 
in tones of gladness, for " it was considered a death-blow U) 
the war.'' The power of the British was now limited to 
the cities of New York, Savannah, and Charleston; and 
though peace was not concluded between the two countricfi 
for more than a year after the surrender of Yorktown, 
hostilities ceased between the two armies, with the exception 
of some skirmishes in South Carolina and Georgia, which 
will be adverted to in due order. The French army re- 
mained during the winter in Virginia, and the Count de 
Rochambeau established his head-quarters at Williamsburg, 
while the American army moved to the north of New 
Jersey and the Hudson River. Washington passed the 
winter in Philadelphia. 

18. In April, General Washington rejoined the 

^^^^' army encamped at Newburg. The British army 

continued to occupy New York, but no active operations 

t/ook place between the opposing forces. Sir Guy Carleton 

* Irving's Life of Washington, Vol. IV., p. 386, 



132 HISTORY or THE UNITED STATES. 

arrived in May, and took command of tlie British 
army, Sir Henry Clinton having been recalled at 
his own request. After the surrender of Cornwallis, the 
southern army had been reinforced by the Pennsylvania 
line. General Greene had sent Wayne into Georgia. 
Colonel Browne from Savannah marched against him, but 
the American commander attacked him at midnight, and 
routed his whole party. Wayne was afterwards attacked 
by a large body of Creek Indians, led by their chiefs and 
British officers, but he defeated them. This was the last 
battle in Georgia, 

19. A change now took place in the British ministry, 
and soon after, overtures of peace being made, commissioners 
were appointed by both governments to settle the terms. 
John Adams, John Jay, and Benjamin Franklin, were the 
agents who represented the United States. A general 
treaty of peace was signed at Paris on the 20th of January, 

and on the 19th of April the joyful intelligence 

was proclaimed in the American army.* This wat; 

the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, and the end of 

the eight years of warfare, and blood, and armed hosts 

contending for the mastery. 

20. On the 3d of November the army was disbanded, 
the cities occupied by British troops evacuated : Savannah 
in July, New York in November, and Charleston in De- 
cember. As the service of the men engaged for the time 
of tlie war would not terminate until the ratification of the 
definitive articles of peace, it was deemed advisable to grant 
furloughs to such of the men as the commander thought 
proper. This enabled the army to be disbanded by degrees, 
and prevented the danger of letting loose in large masses a 
body of unpaid soldiers. Arrangements having been made 
with General Carleton for the evacuation of New York by 

* The definitive treaty was signed Seqtember 3d, 1783 



THE HE VOLUTION. 18'J 

the British troops on the 25th of November, Gene- 
ral Washington with his troops, accompanied by 
(jrovcrnor Clinton and other state officers, entered the city 
in triumphal procession, as soon as the British troojK^ 
embarked. 

21. On the 4th of December, Washington took a finnl 
:eave of his companions in arms. He then repaired to 
Annapolis, where Congress wa8 in session, and, on the 2:^d 
of December, resigned his commission as commander-in- 
chief of the continental armies. *•' He then hastened tc 
Mount Vernon to enjoy the pleasures of domestic life, with 
the pleasing reflection that his beloved country was free 
and independent, and had taken her position among tli'* 
nations of the earth.'' 

Questions on the Everits of 1781, and Close of the lievolution. — 
1. What painful event occurred on the 1st of January ? How wa? 
the difficulty settled ? 

2. By whom was Virgini.o, invaded ? What city did he capture, 
and what did he destroy ? Where did he take post ? 

3. Whom did General Greene send out, and for what purpose ': 
Who was sent against him ? Describe the battle of Cowpens. 

4. What did Morgan do after the battle? Describe the pursuit. 
What rivers were forded ? 

5. What did General Greene now do ? Cornwallis ? What rivej 
did the Americans ford, and what occurred affcr their crossing ? 

6. What river was now crossed by the Americans, and what 
ended Cornwallis's pursuit ? 

7. Where did Cornwallis take post? What did General Greene 
do ? Describe the battle of Guilford Court House. 

8. What did Cornwallis do after the battle ? General Greene ? 
Describe the battle of Hobkirk's Hill. Who wore the respective 
commanders ? 

9. What forts were captured ? 

* Lossiug's Seventeen Hundred and Seventy-Six, p. 359, 
12 



134 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

10. Who took command of the British forces in Virginia? 
What towns were captured ? What is said of General La Fayette ? 
What is said of Generals Phillips, Arnold, and Cornwallis ? 

11. What was the first object of Lord Cornwallis? What did 
General La Fayette do ? What town did Cornwallis fortify ? 

12. Why did Washington determine to move with his army to 
Virginia, instead of attacking New York? With what forces did 
he march, and by whom was he assisted? Describe the route 
taken. 

13. What did Clinton do as a counterplot? Where did Arnold 
land, and what did he do ? What is said of the capture of Fort 
Griswold? What is said of New London? What is now said of 
Arnold ? 

14. Where was General Greene during July and August? I>e- 
Bcribe the battle of Eutaw Springs. To what place did General 
Greene march that night? 

15. What roused Lord CornAvallis from his fancied security ? 
Who arrived soon after ? 

16. What was done by the 1st of October ? On the 9th ? AVhat 
took place on the night of the llth ? How did Cornwallis attempt 
to escape ? After his failure in this attempt, what did he propose ? 
Wlicn did the surrender take place, and to whom ? 

17. To what cities was the British power limited ? Where did 
Washington spend the winter ? 

18. Where was the army encamped in April? AVho took com- 
mand of the British army in New York? What two battles took 
place in Georgia ? 

19. Who were appointed by the American government to make 
terms of peace ? When and where was a general treaty signed ? 
When was peace proclaimed in the American army ? 

20. When was the army disbanded? When were the cities 
occupied by the British evacuated ? When did General Washing- 
ton occupy New York ? 

21. What did General Washington do on the 4th of December? 
On the 23d? Where was Congress in session ? What did Wash- 
ington then do ? 



THE CONFEDERATION. 135 



THE CONFEDERATION. 

1. The war having happily terminated, a treaty 
of peace being signed, and the independence of 
the United States acknowledged, it might be supposed that 
prosperity and happiness would wait on a people delivered 
from oppressive rulers, and the cares, anxieties, and horrors 
of war. But such was not the case. At the close of the 
war, Congress, as the representative of the nation, was bur- 
dened with an immense foreign debt. It had no means of 
discharging that or its domestic debts; and the soldiers who 
had fought the battles and endured every hardship of war 
wore unpaid. The Articles of Confederation gave Congress 
no power to create a public revenue ; and could only recom- 
mend to the states the levying of taxes to pay the debta 
which had been contracted. 

2. General bankruptcy prevailed, there was no commerce, 
and Congress had no authority to make commercial treaties. 

Insurrections broke out amonsr the people. In 
1786. * . 

Massachusetts a large number of discontented 

citizens, headed by Daniel Shay, who had been a captain 

in the Continental army, marched against Worcester, and 

threatened to compel the General Assembly to repeal the 

taxes. General Lincoln, with a large body of militia, was 

scut against them; three were killed, and fourteen of the 

prisoners were found guilty of high treason, but afterwards 

pardoned. On the 11th of September commissioners from 

five states'*' met at Annapolis " to consider the best means of 

* New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Virginia. 



im 



fnsroKY OF tijE united statks. 



remedying the defects of the federal government/' The 
result of their deliberations was transmitted to Congress, 
which body recommended to the several states the appoint- 
ment of delegates to meet in convention at Philadelphia 
^^ for the sole and express purpose of revising the Articles 
of Confederation, and reporting to Congress such alterations 
and provisions as should render the federal constitution 
adequate to the wants of the nation." 




THE FEbEEAL CONVENTION. 



1787. 



3. The delegates from the diflferent states met 
in Philadelphia in May, and General Washington 
was chosen president of the convention. All the state's 
were represented except Rhode Island. On the 17tli of 
September the convention having agreed upon the several 
articles of the Constitution, it was ad<j]>ted, and signed by 
yll the members present. The Constitution thus formed 
was sent to Congress, who forwarded it to the several state 
legislatures for their consideration and approval. 



THE CONFEDERATION. 137 

4. *The Constitution having been ratified by a 
sufficient number of states, an act was passed by 
Congress, on the 13th of September, appointing the first 
Wednesday in January, 1789, for the people of the United 
States to choose electors of a President, and the first Wed- 
nesday in February for the electors to meet and make a 
choice. The first Wednesday in March was named for the 
meeting of government in the city of New York, being the 
place where the present Congress was then in session. 

Questions on the Confederation. — 1. What was Congress unable 
to do? 

2. What was the condition of the country? Describe Shay'w 
insun*ection. For what purpose did commissioners meet at An- 
napolis ? What did Congress recommend ? 

?>. When and where was the Convention held ? Who was chosen 
to preside? When was it adopted and signed? 

4. When was it approved by Congress ? What day was named 
for the meeting of the new government ? 

* The Constitution was ratified in all the states but North Caro- 
lina and Rhode Island. It was adopted by both states subse- 
quently. 



12* 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION. 

WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. The members of both Houses of Congress 

1789. 

assembled in New York at the appointed time, but 
in consequence of a delay in forming a quorum the votes 
of the Electoral College were not counted till April, when 
they were found to be unanimous in favor of Washington. 
On the 16th of April, having been officially notified of his 
election, he set out from Mount Vernon for the seat of 
government. His journey was a continued ovation. II « 
was hailed by all classes of people as their deliverer, and 
every town and city through which he passed poured forth 
its thousands to bid him welcome. 

2. At Trenton a triumphal arch was erected on the bridge 
across that stream where, twelve years before, he had been 
attacked by Cornwallis whom he baffled by his retreat 
at midnight. It bore the inscription : — ** December 26th, 
1776. The defender of the mothers will be the protector 
of the daughters." As he passed under the arch a number 
of young ladies, dressed in white, strewed flowers in his 
path, and sang an ode descriptive of their veneration and 
gratitude. 

y. The time of the President's inauguration was named 
for the 30th of April, when the oath of office was adminis- 
tered by Mr. Livingston, chancellor of the state of New- 
York, in the presence of an immense multitude. He thrn 
retired to th3 Senate chamber, and addressed both houses 



Washington's administration. 139 

with an iuipressive speech. John Adams was 
elected Vice-President, and the heads of depart- 
ment, and judges were appointed. Thomas Jeflferson was 
appointed Secretary of State, Alexander Hamilton Secretary 
of the Treasury, Henry Knox Secretary of War, Edmuiid 
Randolph Attorney-General, and John Jay Chief Justice. 
The organization of the new government occupied the 
attention of Congress during its first session, which closed 
on the 29th of September, by adjournment to the first 
Monday in January. 

4. During the recess the President set out on a journey 
through the Eastern States, accompanied by his secretaries, 
Major Jackson, and Mr. Lear. Wherever he came " the 
benedictions of the people" were poured forth, and all 
classes hailed him as the Father of his country, and testi- 
fied in every possible way their respect and aff'ection. He 
continued his journey as far as Portsmouth, New Hamj)- 
shire, returning to New York on the loth of November. 

6. Congress reassembled on the 8th of January, 
when the session was opened by an address from 
the President, delivered to the members of both houses in 
the Senate chamber. He recommended that provision should 
be made for national defence, for intercourse with foreign 
nations, for the support of public credit, and suggested the 
adoption of many useful laws. Mr. Hamilton, Secretary of 
the Treasury, had been directed by Congress to present a 
plan for retrieving the public credit. The public debt of 
the United States was fifty-four miUions of dollars, besides 
twenty-five millions which had been contracted by the 
states individually. About twelve millions were due to 
France, Spain, and Holland. Mr. Hamilton recommended 
that the entire mass of debt should be funded, the TIniou 
made responsible for it, and taxes imposed for its liqui- 



14& HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

. dation. The assumption of the state debts met 

1790 . ^ 

with much opposition in Congress, and led to 
warm discussions, though it was finally adopted. For the 
purpose of establishing a revenue, duties were levied on 
imported merchandise, and taxes on the tonnage of vessels. 
The establishment of a permanent seat of government, 
which had been a subject of violent contest, was now set- 
tled by compromise. It was agreed that Congress should 
continue for ten years to hold its sessions in Philadelphia, 
during which time the public buildings should be erected 
at some place on the Potomac. A territory ten miles square 
was ceded by the states of Maryland and Virginia for this 
purpose. It was called the District of Columbia. 

6. During this year frequent depredations were made by 
the Indians from the north-west side of the Ohio River on 
our frontier settlements. On the 30th of September an 
expedition under command of General Harmer set out from 
Fort Washington (now Cincinnati). He destroyed the 
principal villages of the Miamis, but his troops were be- 
trayed into an ambush, and routed with great slaughter. 
Another engagement took place on the 21st of October, 
when the Americans were compelled to retreat, leaving the 
dead and wounded in the hands of the enemy. 

7. Congress met on the first Monday of December in 
Philadelphia, which now became the seat of government. 
The Secretary of the Treasury recommended an increase 
of the impost on foreign distilled spirits, and a tax on 

spirits distilled at home, which became a law. A 

1791. . 

bill was also introduced for the establishment 
of a national bank, which met with much opposition, 
but it was finally passed by both houses and approved by 
the President. During this session of Congress Vermont 
was admitted into the Union as an independent state. Thih 



Washington's administration. 141 

state was first settled at Fort Dunimcr (now Brat- 
tleborough) in 1725. The territory was claimed 
both by New York and New Ilampshire, and the i:)Ossessio)i 
warmly contested. But the people of Vermont declared 
their independence, and refused to acknowledge either of 
the claimants New York relinquished all claim on the 
payment of 130,000. 

8. Another expedition had been fitted out against the 
Indians. General St. Clair, the commander, set out with 
about 1400 men from Fort Washington, and, on the 3d of 
November, encamped near the Miami villages. The next 
Horning, half an hour before sunrise, the Indians made a 
sudden attack on the camp. A severe contest followed, 
lasting for two hours and a half, when the general was 
compelled to order a retreat. In this disastrous battle the 
Americans lost nearly nine hundred in killed and wounded. 

9. In August, 1792, Kentucky became one of 
the states of the Union. The first settlement was 

made at Boonesborough, in 1775, by Colonel Daniel Boone 
and a small party of the hardy sons of the wilderness. Wash- 
ington wished to retire from the presidential office at the 
termination of the four years for which he was elected, but 
the wishes of friends and the people prevailed on him to 
remain. He was elected for a second term by a unanimous 
vote, and John Adams was re-elected Vice-President. 

10. Washington's second term of office com- 

1793. 

menced at an unfavorable period. The Revolutit^n 
in France had overthrown monarchy and beheaded the 
king, and the existing government had now declared war 
against England. Many persons wished to render assistance 
to France and enable that country to establish a republic. 
But the President, having consulted his cabinet council, 
issued his proclamation, ''forbidding the citizens of the 



1^ HrSTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



1S93. 



Uuitod States taking any part in the hostilities on 
the seaS; or supplying either party with contraband 



11. The French republic had appointed citizen Genet 
niinistcr to the United States. He landed at Charleston, 
South CaroHna, and was received with great rejoicing. 
Though aware of the proclamation of neutrality, he author- 
ized the fitting out of privateers to cruise against the vessels 
of a nation with which the United States were at peace. 
Though notified by the government of his violation of the 
neutrality laws, he persevered in his improper course until 
recalled by his government. On the last day of this year 
Mr. Jefi'erson resigned his office of Secretary of State, and 
wiis succeeded by Mr. Edmund Randolph. 

12. Great excitement was now produced in the 
United States by the acts of the British ministry. 
One of these acts directed English cruisers to detain all 
vessels bound to France with cargoes of corn, flour, or meal, 
and take them into port. Another act authorized the seizure 
of vessels laden with the produce of any French colony, or 
carrying supplies to such colony. In consequence of these 
acts many American vessels were captured. Preparatory 
measures to an expected war were made by Congress, and 
an embargo was laid for thirty days on all foreign trade. 
The British ministry, however, soon after revoked these 
ofi'ensive measures, and Mr. John Jay was sent as a special 
envoy to adjust existing difficulties. 

13. General Wayne carried on a successful campaign 
against the hostile Indians west of the Ohio. After all 
overtures for peace were inefi'ectual, he advanced against 
the enemy, and in a battle (August 20th) on the banks of 
the Maumee Iliver he gained a complete and decisive vie- 



Washington's administration. 143 

tory. Their towns were destroyed and tlie products 

of their fields laid waste. 
14. In the western part of Pennsylvania great opposition 
had been made to the excise law, or tax on spirituous 
liquors. Armed men combined to resist the execution of the 
law, and the ofiicers appointed to enforce it were assailed 
and compelled to fly. The President issued his proclama- 
tion, warning the insurgents to desist, and declared his fixed 
purpose to reduce the refractory to obedience. As they 
persisted in their rebellion, fifteen thousand men, under 
command of General Lee, then governor of Virginia, were 
sent against them. To this overwhelming force the insur- 
gents made no opposition. They laid down their arms and 
gave assurance of submission to the government. Thus 
the "Whiskey Insurrection'^ was suppressed without blood- 
shed. 

15. Mr. Jay's treaty with Great Britain was 

1795» 

now received and laid before the Senate. It pro- 
vided for the evacuation of western posts held by the British, 
made provision for compensation for vessels illegally cap- 
tured, secured to British creditors the means of collecting 
debts due before the treaty of peace, and authorized a re- 
stricted commerce between the United States and British 
West India islands. It was violently opposed by many 
persons, but approved by the President and ratified by the 
Senate. 

16. General Wayne, who had brought the war to a suc- 
cessful termination with the Indians north-west of the Ohio, 
now concluded a treaty with them, which was soon after 
ratified. A treaty was made with Spain, which secured to 
the Americans the free navigation of the Mississippi River ; 
and during the year a treaty was made with the Dey and 



144 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

regency of Algiers, which liberated many American citizetw 
from a long and grievous captivity. 

17. On the 1st of January the French minister, 
Mr. Adet, presented the colors of France, with an 
address, which was replied to by the President. But though 
these friendly manifestations were made at the commencc- 
tiient of the year, bitter feelings were soon after exhibited 
by the French. Republic, in consequence of which it was 
deemed expedient to recall Mr. Monroe, and send Charle,^ 
C. Pinckney, with instructions to explain the policy of the 
United States to the French government, and expres.s their 
wish to maintain amicable relations. 

18. During this year Tennessee was admitted as a state 
into the Union. The first settlement was made in 1757, at 
Fort Loudon, by emigrants from North Carolina. In 1790 
it was ceded by the latter state to the general government, 
and organized into the " Territory south-west of the Ohio.'' 

19. The time for the presidential election being at hand, 
great anxiety began to be felt whether Washington would 
consent to stand for a third term. This question was soon 
put- at rest by the publication of his " Farewell Address," 
in which he announced his intention of retiring from the 
cares and responsibilities of office. This Address was pub- 
lished in September in the " Philadelphia Daily Advertiser,'^ 
and produced a great sensation throughout the country. 
Numerous testimonials were sent in by State Legislatures 
and other public bodies, expressing the greatest respect for 
the President, and regret at his intended retirement. 

20. In February the votes at the recent election 
were opened and counted in Congress, when John 
Adams, having the greatest number, was declared President, 
and Thotnas Jefferson, having the next number, Vice-Pre- 
sident for four years, their term of office to commence on 



'?7ashington's administration. 145 

the 4th of March next ensuing. Washington's 
term of office ended on the 3d of March, when, 
having remained until the inauguration of his successor, he 
set out for Mount Vernon, that peaceful ahode to which he 
liad so often turned a wishful eye amidst the cares and 
anxieties of his public life, and where he hoped to pass the 
ro^t of his days in quiet and serenity. 



Questions on Washington's Administration. — 1. What is said of 
President Washington's journey to the seat of government ? 

2. Give an account of his reception at Trenton. 

3. When did the President take the oath of office ? Who waa 
elected Vice-President? 

4. What did the President do in the recess? How far did he 
extend his journey ? 

5. What did the President recommend ? What debts were due 
by the national government? By individual states? What mea- 
sures were adopted for payment ? What was done to establish a 
revenue ? What measure was adopted respecting the seat of 
government ? By what states was a territory ceded ? What was 
it called ? 

6. Describe General Harmcrs expedition against the Indians. 

7. When and where did Congress now meet? What acts were 
passed ? When was Vermont admitted into th*. Union ? When 
was this state first settled ? 

8. Describe General St, Clair's espedition againbt the Indians. 

9. When was Kentucky admitted as a state ? When, where, and 
by whom was the first settlement made? What is said of Wash- 
ington? Mr. Adams? 

10. What proclamation was issued by the President? 

11. Who was sent as minister from France to the United States? 
How did he violate the neutrality laws ? 

12. What acts were passed by the British government injurious 
to American commerce? What act was passed by Congress in 
con sequence ? Who was sent to adjust difficulties ? 

13. Describe General Wayne's campaign against the Indians ? 

13 



146 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

14. What law was resisted in Pennsylvania? What did the 
President do ? Who was sent against the insurgents? 

16. What were the provisions of Jay's treaty? Was it approved ? 

16. What other treaties were made ? Give their stipulations ? 

17. What was done by the French minister on the 1st of Janu- 
ary ? For what purpose was Mr. Pinckney sent to France ? 

18. When was Tennessee admitted into the Union ? When and 
by whom was the first settlement made? By whom was it ceded 
to the general government, and what was it called ? 

19. What did President Washington publish ? What effect wns 
produced by his Farewell Address ? 

20. Who were elected President and Vice-President? What 
day did they enter on their duties ? Relate what is said of Wash- 
ington. 



JOHN ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 
1. Soon after Mr. Adams became President, h« 

1797. 

issued a proclamation for a special meeting of Con- 
gress, in consequence of the threatening aspect of affairs in 
France. Mr. Pinckney, who succeeded Mr. Monroe as 
minister to that country, was treated with studied neglect 
and insult, and ordered to leave the country, the French 
government refusing to receive or acknowledge him as the 
envoy of the United States. The French cruisers captured 
a large number of American merchant vessels, and confis- 
cated their cargoes. Congress assembled on the loth of 
May, and adopted measures to maintain the honor of the 
nation, by resisting the encroachments of France. 

2. In pursuance of the policy recommended by the Pre- 
sident, of effecting an amicable adjustment of differene-ea 
by negotiation, three envoys extraordinary were appointed 
to the French Republic, namely^ Charles Cot^sworth Pinck- 



ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 147 

ney, John Marshall, and Elbridgc Gerry. The 
new envoys met in Paris (October 4th), and sent 
notice of their arrival to the government. A secret agent 
waited on them, and intimated that a loan of money to the 
Republic, and a present to the French Directory, would 
npen the way to a negotiation. " We will not give you one 
cent," was the spirited reply of the American envoys. 

3. Government now resolved on vI«:orous mea- 

1T98. . '^ 

sures, and Congress authorized the President to 
enlist ten thousand men as a provisional army, to be called 
into service in case of hostilities. Washington was appointed 
commander-in-chief. An act was also passed, authorizing 
tlie commanders of public armed vessels, and granting 
commissions to private vessels, to capture French armed 
vessels. 

4. In consequence of the latter-named act, a 
number of French armed vessels were captured. 

The French frigate L'Insurgente was taken by the Constel- 
lation, Commodore Truxtun, after a sharp action, lasting an 
hour and a quarter. The prize was manned and sent to the 
United States. The President, having received an intima- 
tion that the French government were willing to negotiate, 
appointed three envoys, who were confirmed by the Senate, 
and soon after proceeded to France. The envoys appointed 
were Messrs. William V. Murray, W. R. Davie, and Olivei 
Ellsworth. 

5. But all public affairs were now lost sight of and ab- 
sorbed by a domestic calamity, which filled every heart with 
the deepest sorrow. This was the news of the death of that 
best of men and most unselfish of patriots, George Washing- 
ton. He died on the 14th of December, after one day's 
illness, brought on by exposure to a cold rain while riding 
over his estate. Congress adopted suitable testimonials of 



146 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

profound respect for his memory, and appointed a 

committee to devise the most suitable manner of 
doing honor to the memory of the man '' first in war, first 
in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." 

6. As there now appeared some prospect of a 

favorable adjustment of difficulties with France, 
warlike preparations by land were abandoned, though 
hostilities at sea still continued, as well as the armii}<r 
of merchant vessels. Commodore Truxtun, while cruising 
off Guadaloupe, discovered a large vessel, to which he gave 
chase. It was the French frigate La Vengeance, of fifty 
guns, which was overtaken by the Constellation, and a 
running fire kept up for several hours. The French vessel 
was silenced, but before Truxtun could take possession of 
his prize, she managed to escape in the darkness of the 
night, with a hundred and fifty men killed or wounded 
(February 1st). 

7. The removal of the seat of government from Philadel- 
phia to Washington took place in the course of the summer, 
and Congress met in the Federal city in November. A 
treaty of peace was now made with the French government, 
at the head of which was Napoleon Bonaparte. 

8. The votes of the electors for President showed 

that no one of the candidates had a majority of the 
whole number of votes. Mr. Jefferson and Mr. Burr had 
each seventy-three votes, Mr. Adams sixty-five, and Mr. 
Pinckney sixty-four. The decision consequently had to be 
made by the House of Representatives. The contest now 
was between Burr and Jefferson, and thirty-five ballots were 
taken without electing either of the candidates. But at the 
thirty-sixth ballot some of Burr's supporters gave way, and 
Mr. Jefferson was elected, and Mr. Burr, being the second 
in choice, became Vice-President. 



Jefferson's administration. 149 

Queaii:ns on John Adams^ Administration. — 1. How was Mr. 
rinckney treated in France? What was done by the French 
cruisers ? When did Congress assemble ? 

2. Who were now sent to France ? What intimation was made 
to them ? What was their answer ? 

3. What vigoi'ous measures were adopted by Congress ? Who 
was appointed commander-in-chief? 

4. What vessel was captured by Commodore Truxtun ? What 
envoys were now sent to the French Republic ? 

5. Why were all public affairs lost sight of? When did Wash- 
ington die ? What was the committee of Congress appointed to 
devise ? 

6. What is said of a naval engagement in 1800 ? 

7. When was the seat of government removed from Philadelphia 
to Washington ? How long was the seat of government in the 
former city ? What treaty was made ? 

8. Give the result of the presidential election. Who was elected 
President by the House of Ptepresentatives ? Who became Vice- 
President ? In what year ? 



THOMAS JEFFERSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. At the commencement of Mr. Jefferson's 

1801. , . . , TT . 1 O 

administration, the United States were at peace 
with the whole world. The revenue was abundant, com- 
merce flourishing, and the President was not haras.sed by 
foreign wars or domestic insurrections. But this halcyon 
state was of short continuance. Much insolence was dis- 
played by the Barbary States, to whom the United States 
paid large sums in annual tribute. The Bey of Tripoli had 
received a gross sura for the purchase of a treaty, but, 
dissatisfied with not receiving a sum annually, he declared 
war against the United States. 



160' HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. Commodore Dale was sent with four ships into 

1801. ^ 

the Mediterranean. On his aiTival at Gibraltar he 
found two cruisers watching for American vessels. These 
were blockaded by the Philadelphia frigate, while Bain- 
bridge was giving convoy to the American merchant vessels. 
Dale, in the ship President, followed by the schooner 
Experiment, set off to cruise off the harbor of Tripoli. On 
their way the Experiment captured a Tripolitan cruiser, 
after an action of three hours. 

3. As the territory now constituting the state 
of Ohio had the requisite number of inhabitants, 

it was admitted as a state into the Union. It originally 
formed part of the North-West Territory, and was first 
settled at Marietta in 1788, by emigrants from the New 
England States. Ohio had increased with wonderful ra- 
pidity, although not settled at the close of the Revolution. 

4. Much trouble had been anticipated by the 
refusal of the Spanish to allow the Americans the 

free navigation of the Mississippi Kiver, and it was feared 
that the closing of the port of New Orleans to the pro- 
ductions of the United States would occasion war, or the 
alienation of the western states bordering on the Mississippi. 
Accordingly negotiations were opened for the purchase of 
fche country of Louisiana. It had been ceded to France in 
1800. Bonaparte, knowing that France could not retain it 
against the naval power of England, sold it to the United 
States for fifteen millions of dollars, out of which sum three 
million seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars were to be 
paid to American citizens for claims on France. 

6. The war with Tripoli still continuing, a fleet under 
command of Commodore Edward Preble was sent out to 
relieve the ships which had been so long on duty in the 
Mediterranean. The Philadelphia, commanded by Captain 



Jefferson's administration. 151 

BainbridgG, while pursuing a vessel which was 
attempting to enter the harbor, ran with great 
force upon a sunken rock, where she remained fixed, and 
the brave commander was obliged to surrender. The 
captain and ofl&ccrs were treated with comparative indul- 
gence, but the men were reduced to slavery. The vessel 
was soon after set afloat and towed into the harbor. 

6. Soon after the loss of the Philadelphia, it was 
suggested to Commodore Preble to destroy that 
vessel, then refitting in the harbor of Tripoli. This adven- 
turous operation was intrusted to Lieutenant Decatur. He 
set sail from Syracuse in a vessel taken from the enemy, 
and named the Intrepid. Ho entered the harbor of Tripoli 
in the evening, and at midnight boarded the captured 
frigate, overcame the guard, set fire to the vessel, and 
retreated without loss or iujur3^ 

7. Great excitement prevailed in the public mind in 
consequence of a duel between Vice-President Burr and 
General Hamilton, in which the latter was killed. Burr, 
fearful of arrest for murder, escaped to the south, and waited 
till the public indignation had in some measure subsided. 
Hamilton was universally lamented, as he was a statesman 
of rare qualification, and fitted to adorn any station. 

8. The blockade of Tripoli was kept up through the 
summer, and several attacks were made on the city. Soon 
after, a new squadron arrived, and Commodore Barron, who 
had superseded Commodore Preble, now took the command. 
But new alarms of hostilities on the part of Morocco made 
it necessary for a part of the fleet to cruise near Gibraltar; 
and at Tripoli nothing was done beyond keeping up ih^ 
blockade. 

9. When the votes for President and Vice-President 
were counted; it waa found that Mr. Jefiorson was re-elected 



152 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

President. Georo^e Clinton was elected Vico- 

1 805 

President for four years from the 4tli of Marcli. 
The war with Tripoli still continued. Hamet, the brother 
of the reigning bashaw of Tripoli, and who had been 
deprived of his sovereignty and driven into exile, was now 
sought out by William Eaton, American consul at Tunis, 
and an army raised to make a land attack on Tripoli. They 
set out from Alexandria, and, after a weary march across 
the desert, attacked and captured Derne, a city belonging 
to Tripoli. But soon after, a treaty of peace was made by 
Mr. Lear, consul at Algiers, with the Tripolitans. This 
treaty provided for an exchange of prisoners, but as the 
bashaw had two hundred more prisoners than the Americans, 
sixty thousand dollars were paid for their liberationj and no 
farther aid was to be extended to Hamet. 

10. The wars of Europe furnished a vast amount 

1806. „ , . . 111. , 

of trade to American vessels, who, being neutrals, 
carried on the commerce of Europe, and supplied all its 
ports with manufactured goods and agricultural productions. 
The British government became dissatisfied with this com- 
merce* with France, and, to prevent it, an order was issued, 
declaring the coast of France, from Brest to the river Elbe, 
in a state of blockade. Napoleon, the same year, issued 
what is known as the Berlin Decree, declaring the British 
Islands in a state of blockade. In consequence of these 
acts great numbers of American vessels were taken by both 
British and French cruisers, and their cargoes confiscated. 
Another grievance arose from the practice by Great Britain 
of impressing American seamen, claiming them as British 
subjects. 

11. Aaron Burr, the late Vice-President of the 

1807* 

United States, was brought to trial for high treason. 
He had collected a large number of men and boats, and it 



jkfferson's administration. 153 

was charged on liira that he designed to effect a 
separation of the Western States from the Union, 

or make an attack on the Spanish provinces of Mexico. 

But in both cases the jury found him not guilty, and thia 

ended the prosecution. 

12. By an order from a British admiral, the frigate 
Chesapeake, Commodore Barron, which was leaving her 
port for the Mediterranean, was attacked by the British 
ship Leopard. Three men were killed, eighteen wounded, 
and four taken as deserters from the British navy. This 
outrage produced great excitement throughout the country, 
and the President by proclamation ordered all British armed 
vessels to leave the harbors of the United States, and for- 
bade all intercourse with them. 

13. In November, the British government issued the 
celebrated ^' Orders in Council,'^ prohibiting any neutral 
trade with France, except licensed in a British port. Soon 
after, Napoleon issued the " Milan Decree," forbidding all 
trade with England and her colonies, and making vessels 
sailing from England lawful prizes, thus exposing all 
American vessels to seizure by one or other of the con- 
tending powers. In December, Congress laid an embargo 
on American ships, which they hoped would compel Eng- 
land and France to repeal decrees so ruinous to American 
commerce. 

14. The embargo, however, failed of its destined 
effect, and it was bitterly opposed at home, as 
putting an end to all commcice with foreign nations. It 
was repealed by Congress, and an act interdicting all 
commerce with France and England substituted in its 
place. Mr. Jefferson having declined a re-election, James 
Madison was elected President, and George Clinton Vice 
President. 



154 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Questions on Thomas Jefferson's Administration. — 1. Who declared 
war against the United States, and why ? 

2. Describe Commodore Dale's expedition against Tripoli. 

3. When was Ohio admitted into the Union ? Where and when 
was it first settled ? By whom ? 

4. What large territory was purchased from France? How 
much was paid for it ? How much of the purchase-money wa» 
retained for claims due by France ? 

5. Who commanded the fleet now sent against Tripoli ? What 
happened to the Philadelphia ? 

6. Who undertook the destruction of that vessel ? Kelate the 
circumstances. 

7. What excitement prevailed ? What is said of Hamilton ? 

8. What further is said of the war with Tripoli? Who took 
eommand of the fleet ? What other nation seemed to be hostile ? 

9. What was the result of the presidential election ? Describe 
a land attack made on Tripoli. By whom was it conducted? 
By whom was a treaty of peace made ? What were its pro- 
visions ? 

10. What order was issued by the British government? What 
by Napoleon ? What was the consequence of these two acts ? 
What other grievance arose ? 

11. What charge was made against Aaron Burr? 

12. What American vessel was attacked by the British ship 
Leopard? Give the result. 

13. What was decreed by the "Orders in Council?" What by 
the "Milan Decree?" AVhat act was passed by Congress in con- 
sequence ? 

14. What is said of the Embargo ? When it was repealed, 
what act was substituted? Who were elected President and 
Vice-President ? 



Madison's administration. 156 



JAMES MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. Mr. Madison entered on tlie duties of his 

1809. 

office at a time when the country was beset with 
difficulties and dangers. .Commerce had been paralyzed by 
the embargo, and England and France persisted in their 
obnoxious measures. Soon after his accession, however, a 
prospect of conciliation was afforded by the assurance of 
Mr. Erskine, the British minister, that the " Orders in 
Council' should be«^epealed by the 10th of June. The 
President therefore gave notice that commercial intercourse 
would be renewed on that day. The British ministry, how- 
ever, disavowed the acts of their minister, and non-inter- 
course with England was again proclaimed. Mr. Erskine 
was recalled, and succeeded by Mr. Jackson, whose conduct 
was so offi^nsive to the American government, that the Pre- 
sident declined all communication with him. 

2. The next year Napoleon issued a decree, by 
which American vessels arriving in any of the 

ports of France were to be seized ; but in November tho 
decree was repealed, and commercial intercourse between 
the United States and France renewed. England i^till con 
tinned her hostile measures, and intercepted the American 
merchant vessels, sending them into British ports as lawful 
prizes. 

3. Commodore Rogers, in the frigate President, 
encountered a British vessel on the coast, which he 

hailed j but the commander of the unknown vessel, instead 
of replying, fired a gun. The fire was promptly returned 
by Commodore Rogers, and the guns of the stranger 
ailenced. On hailing again the answer was given that the 



|S6 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

vessel was the " Little Belt," commanded by Cap- 
tain Bingham. The British vessel had eleven men 
killed and twenty-one wounded, and the American vessel 
one man wounded. 

4. The Indians on the western frontiers had now becon»e 
hostile, and General Harrison, governor of Indiana Ter- 
ritory, marched against the tribes on the Wabash. On hi« 
approach to their town the chiefs proposed a conference, 
and requested him to encamp for the night. But Harrison 
Vnew the treachery of the Indian character, and ordered 
Ais men to sleep on their arms. Before morning the camp 
was furiously assailed, and a fierce 'Ijattle ensued, which 
resulted in the defeat of the Indians. This battle takes 
Its name from the Tippecanoe, on whose banks it was 
fought. 

5. During this year Louisiana was admitted into 
the Union. The first settlement was made in 1699 
by a French company, conducted by D'lberville, a brave 
and intelligent naval ofiicer. In 1762 the territory was 
ceded to Spain, and continued under Spanish rule until 
1800, when it was retroceded to France, and by that nation 
conveyed to the United States. (See Jefferson's Adminis- 
tration.) 

6. As there seemed to be no prospect of an accommoda- 
tion with Great Britain, Congress made preparations for 
hostilities, laid an embargo for ninety days on all vessels 
within the jurisdiction of the United States, and, on the 
18th of June, declared war against that nation. Exertions 
were made to raise a large army, to enlist men, and call out 
the militia. General Dearborne, an officer of the Revolu- 
tion, was appointed commander-in-chief. 

7. General Hull, the governor of Michigan Territory, 
jro8sed the river Detroit into Canada with a force of two 



181S. 



Madison's administration. 157 

thousand men, and encamped at Sandwich (July 
^^*^* 12th). While Hull was inactive in camp, the fort 
at Mackinaw was surprised by a party of British, and its 
surrender demanded. This was the first intimation the 
garrison had of the existence of war between the two 
countries. The demand could not be resisted, and a strong 
post was thus lost to the United States (July 17th). 

8. The loss of this post, the defeat of a detachment, the 
seizure of his supplies by the enemy, and the inability on 
the part of the American general to maintain a communi- 
cation with the government, determined him to fall back 
on Detroit and act on the defensive. Here he was attacked 
by General Brock, with a force of British and Indians. 
The guns were ready to open on the advancing column, 
when, to the surprise of his men, Hull oflfered to capitulate. 
The terms were accepted by the British general, and De- 
troit and the whole territory of Michigan were surrendered 
to the enemy. 

9. A second army, under General Dearborne, had assem- 
bled on Lake Champlain, with a force of militia at different 
points on the St. Lawrence River; and a third army, under 
General Van Rensselaer was collected along the Niagara 
River, from Fort Niagara to Buffalo. A part of this army 
crossed the river (October 13th) and stormed a battery 
which had opened a severe fire upon them. Van Rensse- 
laer was severely wounded, and the British general. Brock, 
was killed. The battle was continued for several hours, 
but the militia on the American side refused to embark, 
denying the general's constitutional right to march them 
into Canada, and, the British being reinforced, the brave 
troops on the Canada side were obliged to surrender. The 
total loss, in killed, wounded, and prisoners, was upwardj> 
of a thousand. General Van Rensselaer resigned his com- 

14 



158 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

mand and was succeeded by General Smyth, but 
nothing effectual was accomplished by either army 
during the year. 

10. But, although failure had attended the land forces, 
the navy had performed some brilliant achievements. The 
Essex, Captain Porter, captured the British sloop Alert, 
and being soon pursued by the enemy's blockading squadron, 
escaped into the Delaware. The Constitution, Captain Iluil, 
while cruising off the coast, encountered a British frigate, 
the Guerriere, which opened a fire on the approach of the 
American vessel (August 19th). The fire was not, how- 
ever, returned until the Constitution obtained a favorable 
position, when broadside after broadside was fired in rapid 
succession. All the masts of the Guerriere were shot away^ 
and her hull was greatly damaged. She had seventy-eight 
killed and wounded, and was obliged to surrender. The 
wreck was set on fire and blown up, and the Constitution 
returned with her prisoners to Boston. 

11. The next naval engagement, in point of time, was 
between the sloop of war Wasp, commanded by Captain 
Jacob Jones, and the British brig Frolic (October 13th). 
After a raking fire on the part of the Americans, the British 
vessel was boarded, and presented a dreadful scene of car- 
nage, with none at their posts except the man at the wlieci, 
who continued faithful to his trust. The wounded oSicers 
made signals of surrender, and the flag was lowered by the 
American lieutenant. Soon after the battle, both vessels 
were taken by the Poictiers, seventy-four gun ship, and 
carried into Bermuda. 

12. On the 25th of October, the United States, Capfciin 
Decatur, gave chase to a vessel near the Azores, which 
proved to be the Macedonian. In the action which ensued, 
the rigging of the Macedonian was greatly damaged, her 



Madison's administuation. 159 

masts shot away, and upwards of a hundred of her 
men killed and wounded. The two vessels were 

taken into Newport, and thence, through Long Island 

Sound, to New York. 

13. The last naval triumph of this year was the capture 
of the British frigate Java, by the Constitution, now com- 
manded by Captain Bainbridge, off the coast of Brazil 
(December 29th). The Java's masts were shot away, her 
commander and twenty-two of her crew killed, and upwards 
of a hundred wounded. In consequence of the distance 
from home, Captain Bainbridge deemed it too hazardous to 
attempt taking his prize into port. She was therefore set 
on fire, and the Constitution, with her gallant crew, returned 
to the United States. 

14. During this year, George Clinton, the Vice-President, 
died, and, at the presidential election, Mr. Madison was 
re-elected President, and Elbridge Gerry Vice-President. 
General Harrison, who had been appointed to the command 
of the western army, destined to march against the enemy 
at Detroit, was busily employed in forwarding provisions to 
Fort Defiance, Fort McArthur, and Upper Sandusky, with 
the intention of concentrating his troops at the falls of the 
Maumee River; but he was unable to advance against the 
enemy until January. 

15. Orders were now sent to General Winchester, 

1 813> 

in command of the Kentucky troops at Fort Defi- 
ance, to move down the Maumee and occupy the Rapids. 
A detachment was sent against the British and Indiana 
occupying Frenchtown, on the river Raisin. A sudden 
attack dislodged the enemy, and General Winchester arrived 
soon after and took the command. The morning after his 
arrival his camp was assaulted by a British column from 
Maiden, commanded by Colonel Proctor (January 22d). 



160 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

The Americans were put to flight and many taken 
prisoners, among whom was General Winchester. 
The prisoners were taken to Maiden, with the exception 
of the wounded, who were left at Frenchtown. The next 
day a band of Indians broke into the houses where the 
wounded lay aod massacred them ; the British guard being 
unable or unwilling to protect them. Harrison now ad- 
vanced to the Rapids, and took his position at Fort Meigs. 

16. A naval engagement, off the hiouth of the Demarara, 
occurred between the Hornet, Captain Lawrence, and the 
British brig Peacock. After a brief, but very severe 
engagement, the Peacock struck her flag, hoisting a signal 
of distress. It was then found that the brig was sinking. 
Before the prisoners could be transferred to the Hornet, 
the prize suddenly went down, carrying with her nine of 
her own men and three of the Hornet's. Lawrence set out 
for home, and arrived safely in New York. 

17. In April, Fort Meigs was besieged by the British and 
Indians from Maiden, under Colonel Proctor. Soon after, 
General Clay, with twelve hundred Kentucky volunteers, 
arrived. The troops landed and attacked the batteries, but 
were in turn surprised by Proctor, and made prisoners, with 
the exception of one hundred and fifty, who escaped into 
the fort. A sortie from the fort destroyed the battery on 
the south bank of the river, and Proctor, fearing the arrival 
of more volunteers, retired to Maiden. 

18. Commodore Chauncey, having now a fleet on Lake 
Ontario, consisting of the Madison, the Oneida, and eleven 
armed schooners, it was resolved to attack *York, the 
capital of Upper Canada. A detachment of sixteen hun- 
dred from General Dearborne's army crossed the lake in 

* Now " Toronto." 



Madison's administration. 161 

this flotilla, and effected a landins; on the 27th of 

1813. ' ^ 

April. General Pike led on the troops, and the 
enemy fled ; but the explosion of a magazine killed or 
wounded two hundred of the Americans, General Pike 
himself mortally. The town soon after capitulated, and the 
troops re-embarked for Fort Niagara. Dearborue's army 
having been reinforced, a landing was effected in Canada, 
the light troops, under Scott and Forsyth, leading the way. 
Fort George was abandoned by the British, and all the 
British posts on the Niagara were soon after evacuated. 
The enemy now made an attack on Sackett's Harbor, 
during Commodore Chauncey's absence, and, having effected 
a landing, destroyed the barracks and magazine. A severe 
action ensued, and the assailants were driven back to their 
ships. General Brown, who commanded the militia, was 
promoted to the rank of brigadier-general in the regular 
army (May 29th). 

19. Lawrence, the brave commander of the Hornet, now 
made captain, had command of the Chesapeake, then block- 
aded in Boston harbor. When the Chesapeake was nearly 
ready for sea, the Shannon, Captain Broke, appeared alone 
off the harbor. Lawrence, regarding this as a challenge, 
hastened to a deadly encounter. The crew of the Chesa- 
peake were discontented, and her most efficient officers were 
on the sick list. But the commander did not hesitate to 
follow the Shannon some distance out to sea, where the 
engagement commenced (June 1st). In consequence of 
an accident to the Chesapeake's sails she became exposed 
to a raking fire, when Lawrence himself fell mortally 
wounded. The enemy now boarded, took possession of 
the ship, and carried her to Halifax, where Captain Law- 
rence was buried with military honors. 

20. Chesapeake Bay was invaded by a British squadron, 
14* 



162 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

wliich carried a large body of troops, many of wliom 
were of the worst class of society. They first 
made an attack on Norfolk, which was gallantly repulsed. 
They then landed at Hampton, which they captured, and 
were guilty of the most shocking brutahties. Frenchtown, 
Havre-de-Grace, Georgetown, and Fredericktown were 
burned, and considerable alarm was excited on the coasts 
of Delaware Bay by the bombardment of Lewes, a village 
near Cape Henlopen. 

21. For some time nothing had been effected on the 
western frontier. General Harrison was waiting for rein- 
forcements, and the armies at *Fort George and "^Burling- 
ton were inoperative for want of commanders. Proctor, on 
the 21st of July, advanced against Fort Meigs, but failing 
to induce the garrison to sally out, he advanced against 
Fort Stephenson, at Lower Sandusky. This post was 
gallantly defended by Major Croghau. He repulsed the 
enemy, who retreated that night, and returned to Maiden. 
The Argus, sloop of war. Captain Allen, captured tAventy- 
one merchant vessels in the British Channel. An engage- 
ment took place, on the 13th of August, between that 
vessel and the British sloop of war Pelican, when the 
Argus was captured, and her brave commander mortally 
wounded. Another naval action took place on the 5th of 
September, between the American brig Enterprise and the 
British brig Boxer. The Enterprise struck her colors after a 
severe engagement, in which both commanders were killed. 

22. An Indian war now broke out in Georgia and Ala- 
bama. A large body of the Creeks commenced hostilities 
by murdering the whites. The inhabitants in the south- 



* The American army at Fort George and the British at Bur- 
lington. 



Madison's admin istratiOxV. 163 

west of Alabama collected in forts, one of Wiiicli, 

1813. ' 

P'ort Mimms, on the Alabama River, was surprisr^l 
by the Indians, and its inmates, with the exception of a 
few who escaped, were massacred. General Jackson, with 
an army, marched against them, and defeated them at 
Talladega, Attossee, and Tallushatchee. 

23. Oliver H. Perry, a young naval ofl&cer, having, by 
energy and perseverance, equipped a small fleet at Eric, 
Pennsylvania, sailed for Maiden, to offer battle to the enemy. 
His fleet consisted of nine vessels, carrying fifty-four guns. 
The British fleet consisted of six vessels, carrying sixty-three 
guns, commanded by Commodore Barclay. The two fleets 
met on the 10th of September, at an early hour in the 
morning, but, the wind being light, they did not come to 
close action until noon. The enemy's fire concentrated ou 
the Lawrence, Perry's flag-ship, and continued for more 
than two hours, dismounting her guns, disabling her sails, 
making her almost a wreck, and producing great slaughter. 
Perry now took a boat and passed to the Niagara, com- 
manded by Captain Elliott. 

24. The British ships were now thrown into disorder, 
and the Niagara passing through their line discharged a 
succession of broadsides with such terrific effect, that the 
enemy's vessels all surrendered. The battle lasted three 
hours, with a loss of about one hundred and fifty men on 
each side in killed and wounded. Commodore Perry now 
took General Harrison's troops on board, and conveyed them 
to the Canada side. Proctor retreated immediately from 
Fort Maiden. Harrison set out in pursuit, and, on arriving 
opposite Detroit, was joined by Colonel Johnson's mounted 
regiment. 

25. The pursuit was continued, and on the 4th of Octo- 
ber Harrison came up with the rear of Proctor's army, 



16-i HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

and capuired his stores and ammunition. The 
next day the main body was overtaken near the 
Moravian town on the Thames River, the regulars being 
supported by Tecumseh and a band of Indians. The 
regulars were attacked by Johnson's mounted men, and 
completely broken at the first charge, when they threw 
down their arms and surrendered. Proctor and two hun- 
dred escaped by timely flight. The Indians fought bravely 
for some time, but Tecumseh having fallen, they made a 
precipitate retreat. The American loss "^as seventeen 
killed, and thirty wounded, among whom was Colonel 
Johnson himself very severely. General (iiss, who was 
now appointed governor of Michigan, was left with his 
brigade to garrison Detroit, and General Harrison with his 
regulars embarked for Buffalo, to co-operate with the army 
on Lake Ontario for the conquest of Upper Canada. 

26. The Creek War in Alabama still continued. 
Early in January, General Jackson marched to the 
relief of General Floyd, but was attacked by a large force 
with great spirit. Though the Indians were repulsed, 
Jackson deemed it advisable to fall back to Fort Strother, 
where he was attacked by the Creeks (January 24th). On 
the 27th, the Indians assailed Floyd's camp, and were 
repelled, after a severe struggle. General Jackson was now 
reinforced by four thousand Tennessee militia, a regiment 
of regulars, and a large number of friendly Indians. With 
this force he marched to the Great Bend of the river Talla- 
poosa. Here he found the main body of the enemy were 
strongly posted at Tohopeka, or the Horse-Shoe Bend. 
The battle continued with great obstinacy for five hours, 
vv'hen the Indians were defeated with great slaughter. Very 
few prisoners were taken, except women and children. 
This battle put an end to the war. The Indians made no 



Madison's administration. 16ft 

further resistance, but submitted to the victorious 

1814. . ^ . 

general, with the exception of a portion of the 
tribe who escaped to Florida. 

27. The Essex, Commodore Porter, had been very suc- 
cessful on the Pacific Ocean. Having returned to Valpa- 
raiso, she was attacked by two vessels, the frigate Phoebe 
and the sloop of war Cherub. After a desperate resistance 
against this unequal force, Porter was compelled to surrender 
(March 28th). On the 21st of April, the new sloop of war 
Frolic was captured by the British frigate Orpheus. The 
Peacock, Captain Warrington, captured the brig Epervier, 
with $118,000 in specie, and carried her prize into Savan- 
nah (April '27th). The Wasp, Captain Blakely, captured 
and destroyed the Reindeer, near the English Channel, and 
then put iuto L'Orient for repairs. 

28. The next important event of the year was another 
invasion of Canada. The expedition was conducted by 
General Brown, assisted by Generals Scott and Ripley. 
Crossing the Niagara from Buffalo, they came to Fort Erie 
early in the morning of July 3d. The small garrison 
holding this post surrendered the same day, without re- 
sistance. The next day. General Scott led the advance 
against General Riall, at Chippewa, and having driven in 
the British outposts, he was joined by General Brown, with 
the rest of the army. 

29. On the 5th, the British advanced on the Americans, 
and the battle commenced with skirmishes of the light 
troops. The British were driven back by General Portei. 
but finding the main army under General Riall advancing, 
they rallied and in turn attacked Porter, whose light troops 
broke and fled. At this juncture, General Scott's brigade 
was moving forward, and soon encountered the main army 
under General Riall, which had crossed the Chippewa, and 



166 HISTORY OF TUE UNITED STATES. 

formed on the plain. Major Jessup attacked tho 
enemy on the right wing, and, after a severe 
encounter, caused them to retire. General Scott ordered 
his men to charge, which they did so effectually, supported 
by Towson's artillery, that the British broke and fled, fairly 
routed in an open plain. They fled to their intrenchmenta 
beyond the Chippewa, closely pursued by General Scott, 
who took a large number of prisoners. 

30. After the battle of Chippewa, General Riall reinforced 
the forts near the mouth of the Niagara River, and then 
retired to Burlington Heights, near the head of Lake 
Ontario. On the 25th of July, General Brown received 
information that the enemy were crossing the Niagara 
iliver at Queenstown. He immediately despatched General 
Scott, with a detachment of thirteen hundred men, to 
threaten the forts at the mouth of the Niagara. Just above 
the Falls, Scott learned that the enemy was drawn up in 
force to oppose him. Supposing that it was a remnant of 
the British army, he dashed forward to disperse them, and 
was astonished to find the whole British army drawn up in 
order of battle on Lundy's Lane. 

31. Notwithstanding the disparity of numbers, however, 
Scott gallantly maintained his position, and sent to General 
Brown to hasten up the reserved forces. The battle com- 
menced a little before sunset, and continued till midnight 
General Riall was wounded in the onset, and, with several 
other officers, was made prisoner. About nine o'clock, 
General Brown came to the relief of Scott, and directed 
General Ripley to form a new line with the advancing 
forces, and thus relieve General Scott's exhausted troops. 
The enemy's battery on an adjoining eminence commanded 
the field of action. In order to obtain the victory, it was 
necessary to seize this battery. This duty was assigned to 



Madison's administration. 167 

Colonel Miller, who, on being asked if he could 
take the battery, answered, " I will try," He 
advanced steadily and gallantly to the charge, captured the 
position, and seized the cannon. The British made desperate 
attempts to recover their lost ground, but failed in each 
attempt, and the contest closed by the field of battle 
remaining in possession of the Americans. 

32. General Scott was severely wounded in this battle. 
He had two horses shot under him, and was finally disabled 
from a musket-ball through his shoulder. General Brown 
was also wounded, but did not at once resign the command. 
The army fell back to Chippewa, but learning that General 
Drummond with a large British column was fast approaching. 
General Brown fell back to Fort Erie, of which post he 
directed General Gaines to take the command. On the 3d 
of August, General Drummond arrived at Fort Erie, and 
commenced his preparations for a siege. On the 13th he 
commenced a cannonade, and, on the 15th, attempted t<. 
storm the works. The assailants were met and repulsed 
on every side, one column only proving for a short time 
successful. This party got possession of an exterior bastion, 
but soon after were driven out by the explosion of a 
quantity of cartridges in a small stone building within it. 
The enemy lost in this unsuccessful attack more than nine 
hundred men. 

33. While the British were besieging Fort Erie, a suc- 
cessful invasion was made by a fleet under Admiral Coch- 
rane, which resulted in the capture of Washington. The 
fleet, with four thousand five hundred troops under General 
Ross, entered the Chesapeake Bay on the 18th of August, 
and disembarked on the 20th at Benedict, on the Patuxeut, 
without opposition. Commodore Barney, who had command 
of a flotilla of gun-boats, destroyed them on the approach 



i58 HISTORY OF TOE UNITED STATES. 

of the enemy, and tlius nothing opposed their 
march until they reached Bladensburg. 

34. General Winder made a stand at the latter place, 
and was attacked by the enemy on the 24th. The battle 
commenced at one o'clock, and lasted till four, when the 
Americans were obliged to give way, and the British 

parched the same evening into Washington. The Secre- 
tary of the Navy ordered the destruction of the stores in 
the Navy Yard, and the burning of two vessels, to prevent 
their falling into the hands of the British. The President 
and his cabinet officers, and the principal inhabitants, fled 
on the approach of the British troops. The British burned 
the Capitol, the President's House, the Treasury and War 
Offices, the State Department, the Library of Congress, 
the bridge across the Potomac, and several unoffending 
private dwellings. The next night they left the sackeu 
and plundered city, and, after four days' march, arrived 
at Benedict, where they re-embarked. A detachment 
of Cochrane's fleet sailed up the Potomac, and anchored 
before Alexandria, which surrendered at discretion, giving 
up twenty-one merchant vessels, and a large quantity of 
merchandise, with which the enemy successfully retreated, 
the Americans being unable to make any effective oppo- 
sition. 

35. The Wasp, after refitting at L'Orient, subsequently 
to her hard-fought battle with the Reindeer, put to sea, 
and, on September 1st, engaged and captured the British 
sloop of war Avon, which sank soon after striking. The 
Wasp made three other prizes, and was last seen October 
9th, near the Cape Verde Islands. From that time she 
was never heard of; the good vessel, with her brave 
captain and gallant crew, perished at sea; far from human 
muccor, they sank into the depths of unknown waters. The 



MADISON''S ADMINISTRATION. 169 

• ' Americans now had no navy on the ocean, and it 

1814- ... . 

is mortifying to state that at sea the American flag 

floated from no national vessel. 

36. General Izard, in command of the army at Plattsburg, 
was ordered to Sackett's Harbor, with four thousand men, 
the flower of his army, to co-operate with General Brown, 
should occasion present. General Prevost now advanced 
against Plattsburg, with twelve thousand men. General 
Macomb, with his forces, was strongly intrenched behind 
the Saranac, a rapid and unfordablc stream. The enemy 
spent four days in throwing up batteries and preparing for 
an attack, which they resolved should commence with tho 
appearance of their fleet. In the mean time, Commodore 
M'Donough's squadron anchored in Plattaburg Bay. It 
consisted of fourteen vessels, carrying eighty-six guns and 
eight hundred and fifty men. The British fleet, commanded 
by Captain Downie, consisted of seventeen vessels, carrying 
ninety-five guns, and manned by one thousand seamen. 

37. The battle commenced on the 11th of September, 
between the two fleets. Captain Downie attempted to carry 
his fleet into the harbor, but his largest vessel suff'ered so 
severely, he was obliged to abandon it at the distance of a 
quarter of a mile from the American ships. The battle 
continued for more than two hours, when the flag-ship of 
tlie enemy having surrendered, the other vessels soon fol- 
lowed her example. On shore the enemy attacked Macomb's 
position, but were unsuccessful in every attempt. The same 
evening the British retreated in haste, leaving their sick and 
wounded behind, and a part of their military stores. 

38. The same day which witnessed M'Donough's victory, 
the British fleet in the Chesapeake appeared off the Patapsco. 
The following morning, General Ross, with five thousand 
men, landed at North Point, fourteen miles from Baltimore, 

15 



170 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

and immediately marched towards tliat city. The 

1814. ♦^ "^ 

defence of the city had been intrusted to ten 
thousand militia, including the city regiments, and some 
volunteers from Pennsylvania. One division was under the 
command of G-encral Strieker, the other was confided to 
General Winder, and the whole under the command of 
General Samuel Smith. As General Ross, at the head 
of a reconnoitering party, approached the outposts of the 
Americans, a skirmish ensued, in which Ross was killed, 
but, the main body coming up, the militia were driven from 
the ground. The command of the British now devolved 
on Colonel Brooke, who led the army near the American 
lines. The British rested on the field that night, and 
the fleet opened a heavy bombardment on Fort M'Heury. 
Major Armistead returned the fire, and the bombardment 
was continued through the night, after which the British 
troops retired to their ships, re-embarked, and abandoned 
the attack on Baltimore. 

39. In the mean time the siesre of Fort Erie continued. 

o 

General Brown, who had recovered from his wounds, took 
command of the fort, and, on the 17th of September, made a 
sally on the British works, which he surprised, exploded the 
magazines, rendered their guns useless, and captured four 
hundred prisoners. The British soon after raised the siege, 
and retired to Chippewa. In this sally of the Americans, 
General Ripley was severely wounded while spiking the 
enemy's guns. General Drummond remained a short time 
at Chippewa, and then retired to Fort George. Soon after, 
General Izard, who superseded General Brown in command 
of the army, arrived. Fort Erie was demolished, and the 
army went into winter quarters at Buffalo, Black Rock, and 
Batavia (November 5 th). 

40. General Jackson, who had command of the southern 



MADISON S ADMINISTRATION 171 

department of the army, found that two British 
sloops ,of war had landed troops at Pensacola, and 
were arming the fugitive Creeks. He immediately marched 
against that city, which he entered without opposition, and 
compelled the British to take to their shipping, and leave 
the harbor. As a report prevailed that a large British 
fleet was proceeding against New Orleans, General Jackson 
hastened by way of Mobile to that city. On the 21st of 
December, the British fleet entered Lake Borgne, and soon 
landed on the banks of the Mississippi. Here an engage- 
ment took place on the 23d^ which was renewed on the 
27th and 28th, and the enemy's advance checked. 

41. Great alarm was caused to the government by the 
celebrated Hartford Convention. The people of New Eng- 
land had been dissatisfied with the war, and, agreeably to a 
recommendation of the Massachusetts Legislature, delegates 
were appointed to deliberate on the public measures of the 
Federal Government. The assembly met at Hartford on 
the 15th of December, and consisted of twenty-six delegates. 
Twelve members were appointed by the legislature of Mas- 
sachusetts, seven by Connecticut, four by Rhode Island, 
two by county meetings in New Hampshire, and one by a 
similar meeting in Vermont. After deliberating with closed 
doors for twenty days, they proposed several amendments 
to the Federal Constitution, and messengers were sent to 
Washington to request that a portion of the public taxes 
should be appropriated to the defence of the New England 
States. Elbridge Gerry, the Vice-President, whose health 
liad for some time past been failing, died in the month 
of November. 

42. The commencement of the new year found 

1815. "^ 

the British army before New Orleans, making 
extensive preparations for the capture of that city. Generai 



172 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Jackson had been actively engaged in his prepara- 
tions for defence. Not relying" on the citizens of 
New Orleans, many of whom were aliens, he proclaimed 
martial law, threw up a line of intrenchments, strongly 
defended by artillery, and with a deep ditch in front. To 
guard against an attack on the opposite side of the river, 
General Morgan had been sent to throw up similar defences. 
On the morning of the 8th of January, the main body of 
the British army, led by General Packenham, advanced to 
storm Jackson's position. The British soldiers advanced 
with a determined air, attended by detachments bearing 
fascines and ladders. The American artillery opened on 
them with a destructive fire ; but they still moved on with 
a firm step, fresh troops taking the place of the fallen. At 
last, when they came within range of the rifles and muskets, 
they were thrown into confusion. General Packenham was 
killed. General Gibbs mortally wounded, and General Keene 
80 severely, that he died soon after the battle. 

43. The command now devolved on General Lambert, 
who withdrew his forces, and abandoned the contest. The 
enemy on the opposite side of the river, led by Colonel 
Thornton, had been successful, but the British army had 
lost two thousand men, and Lambert, dreading further 
disasters, fell back to the landing-place on Lake Borgne, 
from which place the army re-embarked and left the coast. 

44. The Constitution, commanded by Commodore Charles 
Stewart, had succeeded in getting out of Boston Harbor, 
where she had been so long blockaded. Commodore De- 
catur, now in command of the President, left New York, 
expecting to be joined by the Hornet and Peacock. The 
next morning (January 15th) he was chased by a squadron 
of British vessels. The Endyraion frigate, which was in 
advance of the other vessels, was soon disabled by the 



Madison's administration. 173 

President, but, the other vessels coming up, De- 
catur, not wishing to sacrmce his men in an un- 
evjual contest, surrendered. 

45. Hardly had the rejoicings for the preservation of 
New Orleans begun, before the public attention was called 
to an event more joyful than that occasioned by the clash 
of arms or the shouts for victories. The sloop of war 
Favorite, under a flag of truce, arrived at New York on the 
11th of February, bringing intelligence that a treaty of 
peace had been signed, December 24th, at Ghent, by the 
British and American commissioners, and ratified by the 
British government. This treaty was immediately forwarded 
to Washington, laid before the Senate, and unanimously 
ratified by that body on the 17th of February. 

46. Three naval engagements took place after the con- 
clusion of peace. The Constitution, after a severe battle 
with the British sloops of war Cyane and Levant, compelled 
each one to surrender. The Hornet, Captain Biddle, en- 
countered and captured the brig of war Penguin, after a 
sharp engagement, March 23d, and the Peacock, Captain 
Warrington, on the 20th of June, captured the Nautilus, 
in the Straits of Sunda. Captain Warrington being now 
informed of the existence of peace, the prize was imme- 
diately given up. Thus ended hostilities between Great 
Britain and the United States. 

47. During the war with Great Britain, the Dey of Algiers 
had dismissed Mr, Lear, the American consul, and declared 
wiir against the United States. Commodore Decatur, with 
a fleet of ten vessels, was sent to Algiers. On his way he 
captured two Algeriue ships of war, one of them the largest 
vessel in the Algerine navy. On the 30th of June he 
appeared with his squadron off the harbor of Algiers, when 
the terrified Dey at once agreed to sign a treaty, by which 

15* 



,1®1 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

1815 ^® surrendered all prisoners, made indemnity for 
captures, and relinquished all claim to future 
tribute. Treaties were made during the year at Detroit, 
with the north-western tribes of Indians. 

48. Congress was occupied during the session 
with a tariff bill, and the adoption of measures to 
increase the public revenue. A bill was passed incorpo- 
rating the ^'BanJc of the United States,'' with a capital of 
thirty-five millions of dollars. This bank was located in 
Philadelphia. Indiana was admitted into the Union as a 
state, December 11th. The first settlement in the state 
was made by the French, at Vincennes, at an early period, 
though the exact time is not known, but supposed to be 
about the year 1690. In 1763 the territory was ceded by 
treaty to England. A territorial government was organized 
over it in 1801, under which it remained until admitted a» 
an independent state of the growing confederacy. At the 
presidential election, James Monroe was chosen to succeed 
Mr. Madison, and Daniel D. Tompkins, of New York, was 
elected Vice-President, entering on the duties of their 
respective offices, March 4th, 1817. 

Questions on James Madison's Administration. — 1. AVhat was pro- 
mised by the British minister at Washington ? Was the promise 
fulfilled ? What is said of Mr. Jackson ? 

2. What is said of commercial intercourse with France ? What 
did England still do ? 

3. Give an account of the President and Little Belt. Who were 
the commanders ? 

4. Who was sent against the Indians? What did the chiefs pro- 
pose? Give an account of their attack. 

5. When was Louisiana admitted into the Union ? When and 
by whom was the first settlement made ? What occurred in 1762? 
In 1800 ? By whom was it sold to the United States ? 



Madison's administkation. lib 

6. What act did Congress now pass? What was done on the 
18th of June? Who was cominandei-in-chief? 

7. Describe General Hull's invasion of Canada. What fort was 
captured by the British ? Give the dates of both events. 

8. Why did Hull fall back on Detroit ? By whom was he attack- 
ed ? What did Hull surrender ? 

9. Where had a second army assembled ? A third army ? What 
did Genei-al Van Rensselaer do ? Who was wounded, and who 
killed in this engagement? What did the militia on the American 
side of the Niagara refuse to do ? W^hat was the consequence ? 
Who succeeded General Van Rensselaer? What was accom- 
plished ? 

10. What was done by the Essex, Captain Porter? The Con- 
Btitution? Give an account of the battle. Who were the com- 
manders ? 

11. What was the next naval engagement? Describe the battle. 
What took place after the battle ? 

12. When and where did the next naval battle occur? Describe 
it. To what port where the vessels taken? 

13. What other naval triumph occurred in 1812? Where was 
this battle fought? What was the result? What did Captain 
Bainbridge do with the captured vessel ? 

14. What executive officer died this year? Who were elected 
President and Vice-President ? What was General Harrison doing ? 

16. What orders were sent to General Winchester? Where was 
a detachment sent ? By whom was the camp of General Winchester 
assaulted ? What was the result ? What was done by the Indians ? 
What did Harrison do ? 

16. When and where did a naval engagement take place ? Give 
% description of the battle. 

17. By whom was Fort Meigs besieged? Describe the assault 
on General Clay's detachment. 

18. What was the amount of vessels in Chauncey's fleet ? Who 
commanded the detachment against York? Describe the battle. 
What is said of General Pike ? Whose army was sent to Canada? 
What place was attacked by the enemy in Chauncey's absence ? 
Describe the engagement. To what rank was General Brown pro- 
moted ? 



176 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

19. To what command was Lawrence promoted? What battle 
ensued? Who was mortally wounded ? Where was the captured 
ship taken? 

20. What towns on Chesapeake Bay were attacked, captured, 
and burned ? 

•il. Give an account of Proctor's doings. The attack on Fort 
Stephenson. What did the Argus capture ? When and by what 
vessel was the Argus captured ? Who was mortally wounded t 
What other naval engagement took place? Give the result. 

22. Where did an Indian war break out? Who commenced 
hostilities? What fort did they capture ? Who marched against 
them? 

23. Where was a fleet equipped ? Who was the commander, 
and what did his fleet consist of? Who commanded the British 
fleet ? Of what did it consist ? When did the two fleets meet ? 
l>escribe the engagement to the time Perry went on board the 
Niagara. 

24. What was done by the Niagara ? How long did the battle 
last ? What did Commodore Perry do after the battle ? 

25. When and where did Harrison overtake Proctor's main 
array? By whom were his regulars supported? By whom were 
they attacked ? AVhat is said of Proctor ? Tecumseh ? Who was 
severely wounded ? What is said of General Cass ? General 
Harrison ? 

26. Where did General Jackson go in January, 1814? By whom 
wiis he attacked ? To what fort did he fall back ? After he received 
reinforcements what did he do ? Where were the enemy posted ? 
How long did the battle continue, and with what result ? 

27. Who commanded the Essex ? What is said of her cruise ? 
Where and by what two vessels was she attacked? What was 
Porter obliged to do ? When and by whom was the Frolic cap- 
tured ? What prize was taken by the Peacock? Who commanded 
the Peacock, and where did he carry his prize ? 

28. By whom was Canada invaded ? By whom was he assisted ? 
When and where did they cross the Niagara River ? What fort 
was captured ? What did General Scott do July 4th ? 

29. What did the British do on the 5th of July ? By whom 



i 



, Madison's administration. 177 

were the British driven back ? AVhat is said of Scott's brigade ? 
Of Major Jcssup ? Of General Scott ? 

80. What did General Riall do after the battle of Chippewa ? 
Who was sent against the enemy on the 25th of July ? Where did 
he encounter the whole army ? 

31. What did Scott do ? When did the battle commence, and 
how long did it continue ? What did General Brown direct Gene- 
ral Ripley fo do? Who captured the enemy's battery? How was 
the battle closed ? Who were taken prisoners ? 

32. What happened to General Scott? General Brown? To 
what post did General Brown fall back ? By whom was he be- 
sieged ? What disaster befell the enemy ? 

33. Who commanded a British fleet in Chesapeake Bay ? Wh'? 
eommanded the land forces ? When and where did they disem- 
bark ? What did Commodore Barney do ? 

34. What did General Winder do ? Describe the battle. What 
«ity was taken the same day ? What was ordered by the Secretary 
of the Navy ? What did the British burn ? When did they leave 
the city ? What was done at Alexandria ? 

35. What vessel was captured by the Wasp ? Where was the 
Wasp last seen ? After her loss what is said of the American 
flag? 

36. To what place was General Izard sent ? Who advanced 
against Plattsburg ? Where was General Macomb ? What squad- 
ron anchored in the bay? What did it consist of? Who com- 
manded the British fleet, and what was its force ? 

37. When did the battle commence between the fleets ? D* 
scribe the battle. What was done on shore ? 

38. When and where did General Ross land with an army ? To 
whom had the defence of the city been intrusted ? What generals 
commanded the divisions, and who had the chief command ? Who 
was killed in a skirmish? On whom did the command of the 
British army devolve ? What fort was bombarded ? What did 
the British do that night ? 

39. What did General Brown do at Fort Erie? What did tho 
British do soon after? Who was wounded in the sally at Fort 
Erie? What is said of Genei-al Drumraond ? General Izard? 
Fort Erie ? 



178 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

40. Why did General Jackson enter Pensacola with an army ? 
Where did a British army land on the 21st of December? "When 
and where did engagements take place? 

41. When did the Hartford Convention meet, and of what was 
it composed? What did they propose? What did they send 
messengers to request of government ? Who died in November ? 

42. When did the battle of New Orleans occur, and who were 
the commanders ? Describe the battle ? Who were killed ? 

43. On whom did the command of the British army now devolve? 
Who commanded on the opposite side of the river? What did 
Jiftmbert do ? 

44. What is said of the frigate Constitution ? Of Commodore 
Decatur? Of the capture of the President? 

45. To what was the public attention called ? When did the 
intelligence of peace arrive ? When and where was the treaty 
signed ? When was it ratified by the Senate ? 

46. What three naval engagements took place after the conclu- 
sion of peace ? Name the American commanders ? 

47. Wbat was done by the Dey of Algiers ? Who commanded 
the flee*i sent against him ? What took place on the SOth of June? 

48. What bill was passed by Congress? Where was the Bank 
located? When was Indiana admitted into the Union? Where 
W4s iio first settlement made ? What was done in 1763? In 1801 ? 
Who ^%i elected President? Vice-President? 



MONROE S ADMINISTRATION. 



1817. 



JAMES MONROE'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. Soon after Mr. Monroe's inauguration he set 
out on a tour through tlie Middle and Eastern 
Stsites. Party spirit hud abated much of its virulence, and 
the President was everywhere received with the honor and 
respect due the head of a great and enlightened nation. 
At the next session of Congress Mississippi was acknow- 
ledged as an independent state, and admitted into the 
Union (December 10th). The first settlement was made in 
1699, at the head of the Bay of Biloxi, by the French, who 
built a fort, and continued to occupy it as a settlement till 
1702, when they removed to Mobile. In 1702 a bluff on 
the Mississippi River was selected as the site for a town, 
and named Rosalie, in honor of the Countess of Pontchar- 
train. This was settled by the French in 1716, and is now 
the flourishing city of Natchez. 

2. In the latter part of this year a new Indian war broke 
out on the southern frontier. Great complaint had been 
made by the people of Georgia of depredations by the Scmi- 
nolcs and refugee Creeks residing south of Flint River, 
and in Florida, then a Spanish province. General Gaines, 
commanding at Fort Scott, by orders from the War Depart- 
ment to expel them from the district north of Florida, 
marched against them, and two skirmishes ensued. A 
boat coming up the Apalachicola was soon after attacked 
by the Indians, and forty out of fifty persons were killed. 

3. G eneral Jackson now received orders to mar»h 

1818* 

against the Indians, which he did, with a large 
force, and destroyed the Seminole villages in the neighbor- 



180 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATKS. 

hood of the present town of Tallahassee. The Ame- 

1818 . -^ 

rican general then marched against the Spanish 
fort at St. Marks, and demanded its surrender. Two 
British subjects, Arbuthnot and Ambrister, .tried before a 
court-martial on a charge of inciting the Indians to make 
war with the United States, and furnishing means to carry 
it on, were- found guilty and put to death. Greneral Jack- 
son now marched against Pensacola, which capitulated with 
out resistance. These captures were justified on a plea that 
the Spaniards were aiding and encouraging the Seminolea 
in their outrages. 

4. In December Illinois was admitted into the Union. 
The first settlement in this state was made by the French, 
at Kaskaskia, and was at first the seat of a Jesuit mission. 
*" It is the oldest European settlement in the valley of the 
Mississippi/' and the date of its settlement is probably 
about the year 1686. It was a part of Indiana until ISOO, 
when a distinct territorial government was organized for 
it. The commissioners under the treaty of Ghent 

1819. "^ ^ , 

now agreed on the forty-ninth parallel of latitude 
from the Lake of the Woods to the Rocky Mountains, a^ 
the boundary between British America and the United 
States, and the right of American citizens to fish in certain 
portions of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Alabama was now 
admitted into the Union. The first settlement in this state 
was made by the French, at Mobile, in 1702. In 1800 it 
formed part of the Mississippi Territory, and in 1817, on 
the separation of Mississippi, it became the territory of Ala- 
bama, until its admission as a state. 

5. In March, Maine, which had been a district 

18^0. 

belonging to Massachusetts, became an independent 
* Bancroft, Vol. III., p. 105. .^l i^^ .^r.;* 



MONROK's ADMIMSTHATION. 181 

state, and was admitted into the Union. The first 

1.890* 

settlement in Maine w.'us made by the French, in 
1613, on Mount Desert Island, and broken upbyArgall. 
The Plymouth company made an unsuccessful attempt t^ 
plant a colony, but no permanent settlement was effecte<l 
until 1625, when the huts of fishermen were scattered alon^ 
the seacoast. Among the earliest towns were Saco, York, 
and Cape Porpoise. In 1652 the people of Maine placed 
themselves under the jurisdiction of Massachusetts, and re- 
mained so until the adoption of a State Constitution, and 
jidmission into the Union as a sovereign state. 

6. On the proposal to admit Missouri into the 

Union, a violent debate arose as to whether it 
nhould be admitted as a slave state. It was finally admitted 
:w a slave state, with the proviso that in all other territory 
west of the Mississippi and north of thirty-six degrees 
thirty minutes north latitude, slavery should be prohibited. 
This is what is called the " Missouri Compromise." The 
first permanent settlement wtus made by the Ptench, at 
tit. Genevieve, in 1663. 

7. On the 5th of Jlareh Mr. Monroe entered on the 
second term of ofiice. Mr. Tompkins had also been re- 
elected Vice-President. A treaty between Spain and tho 
United States, ratified this year, ceded East and West 
Florida, with all the adjacent islands, to the United States, 
in extinction of the various American claims, to satisfy 
which the American government agreed to pay the claim- 
ants five millions of dollars. General Jackson, as commis- 
sioner of the United States, took formal possession of the 
1«rritOTy in July, and a territorial government vrsiS estab- 
lished in 1822. 

8. During this year an expedition was sent 

against the numerous piratical vessels which in- 
16 



IH2 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

fested the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. 

Captain Allen, a brave officer, being killed while in 
the discharge of his duty, it was determined by Congress that 
a squadron, under Commodore Porter, should be sent to the 
haunta of the pirates. The object of the expedition was 
completely successful ; the haunts of the pirates were broken 
up, and their vessels captured and destroyed. 

9. The visit of that brave Revolutionary officer. 
General La Fayette, to the United States, occa- 
sioned general rejoicing. He remained upwards of a ycai 
in the country, during which time he travelled more tlian 
live thousand miles, and visited every state in the Uniun. 
He was everywhere received with the greatest respect and 
affection j and triumphal arches, illuminations, processions. 
and other tokens of the people's joy, proclaimed his wel- 
come to the land he had assisted to liberate, to which he 
now came, " The Nation's Guest." 

10. At the presidential election four persons 
were supported as candidates, but no one had a 

majority of the whole number of electors. General Jack- 
son received ninety-nine votes, Mr. Adams eighty-four, M r. 
Crawford forty-one, and Mr. Clay thirty-seven. In the 
House of Representatives, who, by the Constitution, select 
one from the three highest on the list, Mr. Adams received 
the votes of thirteen states, General Jackson seven states, 
and Mr. Crawford four states. Mr. Adams was, therefore, 
elected President. John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina, 
was elected Vice-President. 



Questions o» James Monroe's Administration.— I. "What did Hit 
President do soon after his inauguration ? When was Mississippi 
admitted into the Union ? When and where was the first settie- 
ment made? Where did the settlers remove in 1702 ? What town 
was settled in 1^16? 



Monroe's administration, jui 18<J 

2. What war broke out in 1817? What orders were given to 
Offieral Gaines? 

•/>. What did General Jackson do ? Why did he invade Florida? 
W!jo was put to death, and why? 

4. When was Illinois admitted into the Union ? Where was the 
Jiisi settlement made, and when? Of what state was Illinois a 
pnrl ? What boundary was agreed upon ? When was Alabama 
a<luiitted into the Union? When and where was the first settle- 
n.cut made ? What did it form in 1800 ? In 1817 ? 

'). When was Maine admitted into the Union? When and where 
vrus the first settlement made? What were the first settled towns? 
What was done in 1652? 

6. What were the provisions of the Missouri Compromise? 
When was Missouri admitted? When and where was the first 
I^ermanent settlement ? 

T. What occurred on the 5th of March ? What was ceded by the 
treaty between Spain and the United States? What sum was ap- 
propriated to pay claims against Spain ? Who took formal pos- 
session of the territory ? 

3. What expedition was sent out ? Who was killed ? What ia 
said of Commodore Porter's expedition ? 

9. Give an account of General La Fayette's reception. 

10. State the result of the presidential election by the electors, 
lu the House of Representatives. Who was elected Vice-Prcai- 
ient? 



IW 



BISTORT or TflJfi UNITED STATES. 



JOHN QUINCY ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 



18585. 



1. General La Fayette, on returning from his toor 
througli the different sections of the Union, became 
a guest at the presidential mansion. He left Washingtoi! 
in September, and returned to France in the frigate Bran- 
dywine. At the previous session of Congress, in '' con- 
sideration of his very important services, his sacrifices and 
losses," it was voted that two hundred thousand dollars iu 
money, and a township of land, should be granted him. 
'Ill is measure was passed by a large majority of both hou8e.H, 
und approved by the President (Mr. Monroe). 




lA FATETTE, THB NATION'S GUEST. 



1886. 



2. The fiftieth anniversary of American inde 
pendence found the country at peace with all the 
world, and the nation in the full career of prosperity. The 
territory of the United States had been enlarged. From 



J. Q. ADAMS ADMINISTRATION. 185 

thirteen feeble states, they had increased in number 

1896. ^ "^ 

to twenty-four powerful ones ; from three millions 
to ten millions of people; the Mississippi had long since 
ceased to be the western boundary, and the country now 
extended to the Pacific Ocean. 

3. The daj was celebrated as the national anniversary, 
hut it was marked by a wonderful coincidence. *0n that 
day two of the three surviving signers of the Declaration 
died. One penned the instrument, and the other sustained 
it in debate. Both had taken active parts in public affairs, 
and both had filled the highest ofiice in the gift of the 
people. Mr. Adams died at Quincy, Massachusetts, in the 
ninety-first year of his age, and Mr. Jefferson, at Monti- 
•H>llo, Virginia, in his eighty-fourth year. 

4. The administration of Mr. Adams was not 

disturbed by foreign wars or domestic insurrec- 
tions. The arts of peace flourished, and internal improve- 
ments received a large share of public attention. This 
year is celebrated for the completion of the first railroad in 
the United States, a mode of travelling which connects 
<iistant states by diminishing the time formerly spent in 
travel. Party spirit was active and bitter. During Mr. 
Monroe's term of office it had subsided, but it now revived 

with the utmost vindictiveness. At the ensuing 

election the result was largely in favor of General 
Jackson, who was elected President, and John 0. Calhouu 
<vas re-elected Vice-President. 



Questions on John Quincy Adams* Administration. — 1. Who be- 
came the guest of the President ? When and in what vessel did 

* Charles Carroll, of Carrollton, Maryland, the last surviving 
signer, died in 1832, aged ninety-five years. 
16* 



186 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

lie leave Washinglon ? Recite the section of an act passed bjr 
Congress at the previous session. 

2. What is said of the condition of the country at the fiftietli 
anniTersary of Independence ? 

3. What deaths occurred on the 4th of July ? What is said of 
Jefferson ? Adams ? AVhat is said in the note, of Charles Carroll " 

4. What is said of party spirit ? Who was elected President ■;' 
Vice-President ? 



ANDREW JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. General Jackson entered on his first term of 
service under favorable circumstances. Universttl 

peace and national prosperity combined to make his admin- 
istration an era of ease and happiness. But this state oi' 
peace was of short continuance. Party spirit increased hi 
violence, in consequence of his numerous removals from 
office ; the renewal of Indian wars, and resistance to con- 
gressional enactments by a portion of the confederacy' 
made the President's position one of care, of turmoil, and 
excitement. 

2. James Monroe, the fifth President of the 

1 831 

United States, died on the 4th of July, 1831, 
being the third ex-president who had yielded up his lii'u 
on the national anniversary. Mr. Monroe had, like his 
predecessors, filled many important stations. He joinerl 
the Revolutionary army at an early period of the war, and 
was wounded at the battle of Princeton. He was succes- 
sively member of Congress, senator, governor of Virgini;;, 
minister to France and Great Britain, Secretary of State, 
and President 



Jackson's administration. 187 

3. A war broke out this year with the Indian 
tribes of Sacs, Foxes, and Wiunebagoes, led by 
the celebrated chief Black Hawk. These tribes had ceded 
their lands on the east of the Mississippi, and agreed to 
remove to the west of that river. But having violated the 
treaty, a body of troops was sent against them. After a 
succession of sKirmishes, they were finally defeated and 
dispersed on the banks of the Mississippi by General 
Atkinson, and Black Hawk was taken prisoner. As the 
government apprehended a general Indian war, General 
Scott was ordered to proceed to the scene of action, and 
take command of the forces. 

4. In the beginning of July he embarked at Buffalo, 
with nearly one thousand troops, few of whom, however, 
ever reached the battle-field. A mightier destroyer than 
war arrested their course, and filled their ranks with disease 
and death. This was that terrible pestilence, the Asiatic 
Cholera. Of nine hundred and fifty men who left Buffalo, 
but four hundred survived. Scott paid every attention to 
the sick and suffering, and, as soon as he could be released, 
hastened to join General Atkinson at Prairie du Chien. 
He came in soon after the battle, and remained until 
treaties were made with the Indian tribes. The one with 
the Sues and Foxes ceded to the United States a large tract, 
constituting the greater part of the present state of Iowa. 
The Winnebagoes ceded nearly five millions of acres, com- 
prehendinj? a valuable part of Wisconsin. 

5. In Congress a bill was brought forward to rechartcr 
the United States Bank, which passed both houses, but wjls 
vetoed by the President. A tariff bill, imposing additionai 
duties on foreign commodities, caused great excitement in 
South Carolina. A state convention declared the tariff acta 
unconstitutional, and therefore null and void, and that the 



1S8 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

duties should not be paid. This measure is known 
by the name of Nullification, and was met by a 
proclamation from the President, in which he warned the 
nullifiers of the consequences of opposition to the general 
government, and declared his intention to execute the law-^. 
The difficulty was removed by the adoption of a " Compromise 
Bill," which provided for a gradual reductibn of the duties 
which had operated so injuriously to the Southern States. 
General Jackson was elected President for a second term, 
and Martin Van Buren Vice-President. 

6. Great excitement was now created by the 

1833. 

removal of the government deposites from the Bank 
of the United States, and their transfer to certain state 
banks. The President, in his annual message, stated that 
the claims due and acknowledgesd by the French government 
remained unpaid, though measures had been taken to press 
the claim on the part of the American government. 

7. No attention having been given by the French 
government to the claims due to the United States, 

the President recommended vigorous measures to compel 
payment. All diplomatic intercourse was suspended, and it 
was feared that a war would ensue between the two countries. 
But an amicable arrangement was effected soon afterwards, 
and the amount due, fiive millions of dollars, has since been 
paid. 

8. This year is celebrated for the most formidable and 
obstinately contested Indian war in which the United States 
ever engaged. It was the Seminole war in Florida. It 
commenced by the murder of planters, the ravage of their 
plantations, and the burning of their houses. Osceola, one 
of the principal chiefs of the Seminolcs, was the chief 
instigator of the war. He was a bold, daring, and fero- 
mous warrior, and a vindictive enemy of the Americans. 



189 

1835 ^^ ^^^ '"^^'^ ^^ December, Slajor Dade, who was 
marching to relieve the post of Fort King, was 
suddenly attacked, and himself and whole company, con- 
sisting of one hundred and twelve men, massacred. Three 
only of the company escaped, severely wounded. Mean- 
while, a detachment of Florida volunteers having joined 
the regulars, General Clinch crossed the Withlacoochee 
River, and was fiercely assailed by Osceola and his numer- 
ous warriors. Their attack was gallantly repelled by the 
Americans. The battle took place December 31st. 

,«o« ^' General Scott was now sent to Florida i<j 
take command of the troops. On the 29th of 
February, General Gaines encountered the Seminoles, when 
an indecisive battle took place. General Scott marched 
through Florida, without meeting any large body of the 
enemy. They were concealed in thickets and swamps 
inaccessible to regular troops. The Treasury Department 
issued what is called a '' Specie Circular,'^ requiring gold 
and silver coin in payment for public lands. The national 
debt having been paid off and extinguished, upwards of 
thirty-seven millions had accumulated in the Treasury, 
Congress passed a " Distribution Act/* dividing the surplus? 
revenue among the different states, in proportion to the 
respective population of each. 

10. During this year, Arkansas was admitted into the 
Union. The first settlement in this state was made at 
Arkansas Post, on the Arkansas River, in 1C85. This state 
formed a part of Louisiana at the time of its cession to the 
United States. In 1812 it constituted part of the Territory 
of Missouri, and remained so till 1819, when a distinct terri- 
torial government was framed, and it was then called Ar- 
kansas. James Madison, the fourth President of the United 
States died this year, at the advanced age of eighty-five. 



tSl9 HISTOBr OP THE UNITED STATES. 

11. Michigan was admitted as a state during the 
month of January. This state was first settled by 
Jesuit missionaries, at the Sault St. Marie, in 1668. Other 
settlements were made, but the first permanent settlement 
was that made at Detroit, by De la Mott« Cadillac, a Jesuit 
missionary, and a French colony in June, 1701. Michigan 
formed part of the North-West Territory. In 1805 it was 
erected into a territorial government. Martin Van Buren, 
«r New York, was elected President, and Richard M. 
Johnson, of Kentucky, Vice-President. 

Questions on Andrew Jackson's Administration. — 1. What oircum- 
giances combined to make the President's position one of excite- 
ment? 

2. What is said of James Monroe ? Where and when was he 
wounded in battle ? What ofl&ces had he filled ? 

3. What war broke out in 1832 ? Where were the Indians 
defeated, and who was taken prisoner? Who was now sent to 
take command of the troops ? 

4. What did General Scott do in the beginning of July ? What 
prevented the troops from reaching the seat of war ? How many 
died of the cholera? What did General Scott do? What land 
was ceded to the United States by the Sac and Fox tribes of 
Indians ? The Winnebagoes ? 

5. What is said of the recharter of the United States Bank ? 
What declaration was made by a convention in South Carolina ? 
What did the President declare in his proclamation ? How was 
the difficulty removed? Who were elected President and Vice- 
President ? 

6. What caused great excitement ? To what did the President 
call the attention of Congress ? 

7. Why did the President recommend vigorous measures towards 
France ? How was the difficulty settled ? 

8. How did the Seminole War commence ? What was th« 
character of Osceola? What occurred on the 28th of December? 
Describe the battle of December 31st. 

9. Who was sent in 1836 to take command in Florida? What 



VAN BUREN^S ADMINISTRATION. 101 

18 said of General Gaines ? What wag required by the " Speci* 
Circular ?" What is said of the National Debt ? The Distribu- 
tion Act ? 

10. When was Arkansas admitted into the Union ? When was 
the first settlement made? What did this state form part of? 
In 1812? In 1819? When and at what age did James Madison 
die? 

11. When was Michigan admitted as a state ? When, by whom, 
and where, was it first settled ? When and by whom was Detroit 
settled? What did Michigan form a part of ? Who was elected 
President ? Vice-President ? 



MARTIN VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. Soon after the accession of Mr. Van Buren. 
a commercial crisis took place. All the banks 
suspended specie payments in May, and the government 
itself was seriously embarra^ised, and could not discharge its 
own pecuniary obligations. An extra session of Congress 
was convened early in September, and passed several bills 
for the relief of government, the most important of which, 
was one for the issue of treasury note,s, not to exceed ten 
millions of dollars. 

2. The Seminole War in Florida was still carried on. 
During the month of March, a number of chiefs camo to 
(xeneral Jessup's camp, and signed a treaty, by which it 
was stipulated that the Indians should remove beyond the 
Mississippi. This treaty was soon violated, and the Indians 
renewed their devastations. In October, Osceola, who came 
to the American camp under a flag of truce, was seized by 
order of General Jessup, and placed in confinement. H« 
was afterwards removed to Fort Moultrie, where he died. 



192 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. On the 25th of December, a severe battle 

1837* 

was fought at Lake Okeechobee, in which the 
Indians were defeated. Colonel Zachary Taylor commanded 
the Americans in this engagement. An insurrection broke 
out in Canada this year, which threatened to involve (ho 
United States in war with Great Britain. Many American 
oitizens on the frontier sympathized with the Canadians iti 
their opposition to government, and furnished them witli 
•irms and other munitions of war. A steamboat called the 
(Caroline J plying between Schlosser, on the American side, 
ttnd Navy Island, belonging to the British, where the in- 
.''urgents had collected, was seized by the British while 
lying at Schlosser, set on fire, and sent over the cataract 
(December 29th). 

4. This event occasioned great excitement throughout 

the country, and the government sent Genera! 

Scott to enforce neutrality, and to call out the 
militia, if necessary, for the defence of the frontier. The 
President issued his proclamation, requiring all Americans 
to desist from their efforts in behalf of the Canadians, and 
declaring that they forfeited the protection of the laws by 
the invasion of Canada. Finally the British colonial go- 
vernment captured or dispersed the insurgents, and this 
put an end to the excitement on the frontier. 

5. Durinf' the session of Con2:rcss, the Sub- 

184:0. 

Treasury Bill became a law, and an appropriation 
was made towards the survey of the disputed boundary line 
between Maine and the British province of New Brunswick. 
At the presidential election, William Henry Harrison, of 
Ohio, was chosen President, and John Tyler, of Virginia, 
Vice-President. 

Questions on Martin Van Buren's Administration. — 1. What im- 
portant act was passed at an extra meeting of Congresa ? 



Tyler's administration. 193 

2. What did the Seminole chiefs do in March T What la said 
»f the treaty ? Of Osceola ? 

3. What is said of the battle of December 25th ? Who was com- 
mander of the American forces? What circumstance threatened 
war between Great Britain and the United States ? What is said 
of the steamboat Caroline ? 

4. Why did the government send General Scott to the frontier ? 
What was required by the President's proclamation ? 

5. What act was passed ? What appropriation was made ? 
Who were elected President and Vice-President ? 



HARRISON'S AND TYLER'S ADMINISTRATIONS. 

1. General Harrison took the oath of office on 
the 4th of March, in the presence of a large as- 
•einblage. He soon after issued a proclamation for a session 
cf Congress, to commence on the 31st of May. But he 
never lived to see it assemblcj nor to carry out the measures 
of his government. One month after his inauguration he 
died, expressing with his last breath an ardent wish that 
his principles of government should be curried out by hi? 
successor. 

2. On the death of General Harrison Mr. Tyler became 
the acting President. On the oth of April he took the 
oath of office, and entered on the discharge of his duties. 
The extra session of Congress commenced on the 31st of 
May, and several important measures were brought forward 
The sub-treasury was repealed, a general bankrupt law 
passed, and bills for establishing a Bank of the United 
Statos were also passed by both hou-es. but vetoed by the 
President. 

3. The controversy which had for a long time 
existed between the United States and Great 
17 



194 HISTOBY OF THB UNITED STATES. 

Britain, respecting the north-eastern boundary, Was 

184Ja. , . , . 

put at rest during this year, by a treaty agreed 
upon by the American and English commissioners, Daniel 
Webster and Lord Ashburton. The Americans claimed, 
according to the treaty of 1783, the boundary as extending 
from " a line drawn due north from the source of St. Croix 
River to the high lands, and along the said high lands to 
the Connecticut River." The British claimed from a line 
intersecting the state from east to west, and cutting off from 
the Americans almost all the tract lying north of the 46ih 
parallel of north latitude. By mutual concessions agreed 
upon, a new line was run, which is now satisfactory to both 
nations. 

4. In Rhode Island some difficulties occurred of so seriowa 
a character that it was feared they would lead to civil war. 
The old charter, granted by Charles II., in 1663, was in 
full force, the government of the state being administered 
under it. A number of citizens wished to abrogate tho 
charter and adopt a state constitution. Under the name of 
the " Suffrage Party," they adopted a new constitution, 
chose a governor, and elected a legislature. The majority, 
called the " Law and Order Party," opposed this movement, 
insisted that any change in the fundamental charter of th^ 
state must be made by the full concurrence of a majority 
of the people, and denounced the suffrage party as guilty 
of high treason. Government sent troops to preserve the 
peace, and the suffrage party abandoned the contest. A 
new constitution has since then been adopted. 

5. The President was suddenly deprived of two 

members of his cabinet by a dreadful catastrophe. 

This occurred on board the government vessel, Princeton, 

while on an excursion down the Potomac. The President 

and a number of distinguished persons were on board. 



Tyler's administration. 195 

During the trial of a large cannou, which had 
received the name of the " Peacemaker," it burst, 
and instantly killed Mr. Upshur, Secretary of State, and 
Mr. Gilmore, Secretary of the Navy. John C Calhoun, 
of South Carolina, was soon after appointed to supply th« 
vacancy occasioned by the death of Mr. Upshur. 

G. In January a joint resolution for the annexa- 
tion of Texas to the United States was adopted ; 
aad in March, Florida was admitted as a state. The earliest 
permanent settlement in this state was made by the Span- 
iards, at St. Augustine, in 1565. Florida continued to be 
a Spanish province till 1763, when it was ceded to the 
IJritish government. In 1783 it reverted to Spain, and 
remained in her possession until its cession to the United 
States. In 1822 it was erected into a territorial govern- 
ment, and so continued until its admission as one of tlie 
states of the Union. 

Questions on Harrison's and 7)/ler^s Administrations. — 1. What 
proclamation was issued by President Harrison ? Did he live to 
F.ee it assemble ? When did he die ? What did he express in hia 
last moments ? 

2. Who now became acting President ? When did he take the 
oath of office ? What was done at the session of Congress ? What 
bills were vetoed by the President ? 

3. By whom was a treaty to settle the north-eastern boundary 
agreed upon ? What was claimed by the Americans ? By the 
British ? How was it settled ? 

4. What constitution was still in force in Rhode Island? Whai 
did the "Suffrage Party" do? The "Law and Order Party"? 
Why did government send troops ? What has since been adopted t 

5. Describe the accident on board the Princeton, and state who 
were killed. Who was appointed Secretary of State ? 

6. What joint resolution was adopted by Congress? When was 
Florida admitted as a state? When and where was the earliest 
gettlement made ? Give other particulars of its history. 



196 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



JAMES K. POLK'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1 James K. Polk, of Tennessee, and George M. 
Dallas, of Pennsylvania, having received a largo 
majority of the votes of electors for President and Vice- 
President, entered on the duties of their offices March 4th. 
The republic of Texas accepted the terms of the resolutions 
ndopted by Congress, and, by annexation, became United 
States' territory. As the Mexican government threatened 
an invasion of the territory, General Taylor, with a body 
of forces, was sent into Texas, and Commodore Stockton, 
with a naval squadron, into the Gulf of Mexico, and diplo- 
matic relations were suspended between the two govern- 
ments. General Jackson, aged seventy-eight, died at hit* 
residence, the Hermitage, in June. 

2. In December, Texas, having formed a constitution, wa.s 
admitted as a state into the Union. The country embraced 
within the limits of Texas was claimed by the Spaniards as 
part of Mexico, and by the French as constituting a portion 
of Louisiana. In 1685 La Salle, with a French colony 
destined for the mouth of the Mississippi, mistook their 
way, and, sailing far past their destination, landed at the 
Bay of Matagorda. Here they established the infant colony, 
and France never relinquished her claim to Texas while 
Louisiana remained in her possession. But La Salle wa}< 
murdered, and the colony broken up by hostile Indians. In 
1690 the Spanish established a settlement at St. Antonio 
de Bexar, and maintained possession of the territory. 

3. After Mexico had thrown off the Spanish yoke, the 
government invited and encouraged emigration. Large 
numbers of the citizeiLS of the United States settled in the 



folk's administration. 197 

territory, and petitioned to be received into tlie 
Mexican Confederacy as a sovereign state. Thia 
petition was rejected, and sucli a scries of wrongs were per- 
petrated against the colonists of Texas as compelled them 
to take up arms and fight for their lives and liberti<.\>^. At 
the battle of San Jacinto the Mexicans were totally routed, 
and General Santa Anna, the Dictator of Mexico, taken 
prisoner. He entered into an agreement of peace, and the 
acknowledgment of the independence of Texas. After his 
restoration to liberty he disavowed all treaties made while 
he was a prisoner, and declared he would suffer a thousand 
deaths, rather than place in jeopardy the integrity of hia 
country's territory. 

4. The battle of San Jacinto, however, caused a cessation 
of active hostilities in Texas. In March, 1836, a Declara- 
tion of Independence ^as adopted, and signed by all her 
delegates in convention. The same year a Constitution was 
adopted, and her independence was acknowledged by the 
United States in 1837, by France in 1839, and by England 
in 1840. Texas continued as a separate independent re- 
public until its annexation to the United States, and its 
admission as one of the states of the Union. 

5. Cono^ress, at this session, established the sub- 

1846. » ? ' 

treasury, repealed the tariff law of 1842, and sub- 
stituted another with a much lower rate of duties. The 
governments of Great Britain and the United States had 
both claimed the territory of Oregon ; the American claim, 
made by the President, being to the latitude of fifty-four 
degrees forty minutes, the British to the Columbia River 
and its head waters. In June the boundary was agreed 
upon by the British and American commissioners, llichard 
Packenham and James Buchanan. The forty-ninth degree 
of north latitude to the Straits of Juan de Fuca, giving to 
17* 



1&8 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

the British the undivided territory of Vancouver's 
Island, constituted the provisions of the treaty. 

6. Iowa, during the ye-dv, was admitted into the Union as 
an independent state. This territory was first visited by 
the French Jesuits in 1673, but no settlements were made 
by them. The country was included in the purchase of 
Louisiana, but remained in Indian occupancy until 1832, 
when the Indian title was extinguished, and it was ceded 
to the United States. The first settlement was made at 
Burlington, in 1833, by emigrants from the Eastern States. 

7. Early in March, General Taylor moved his army from 
Corpus Christi to the Rio Grande, opposite the city of 
Matamoras, where he built a fort. He had previously 
fortified Point Isabel, and left it garrisoned. The Mexican 
troops now commenced active hostilities. On the 10th of 
April, Colonel Cross was murdered, and, on the 18th, 
Lieutenant Porter, with a small body of men, were taken 
prisoners, and butchered. On the 24th, Captain Thornton, 
with a party of dragoons, consisting of sixty-three men, 
became engaged with a large body of Mexicans, in which 
sixteen were killed and wounded, and the others compelled 
to surrender. 

8. General Arista informed General Taylor that he con- 
sidered hostilities commenced, and that he should prosecute 
them vigorously. General Taylor received information that 
large forces of the Mexicans were crossing the Rio Grande, 
and started with his main force for the protection of Point 
Isabel, leaving Major Brown in command of the fort, then 
in an unfinished condition. Soon after his departure, the 
Mexicans at Matamoras commenced a cannonade on the 
fort, which the garrison returned. During this engagement 
Major Brown was killed, and the post so gallantly defended 
by him was named Fort Brown. 



POLK-'S ADMINISTRATION. 109 

^^^ 9. On General Taylor's return from Point Isubo), 

1q46* •' 

May 8th, he was met at Palo Alto by the xMcxicaiis, 
drawn up in order of battle. The enemy's force amouiitod 
to six thousand men, the army of General Taylor to two 
thousand three hundred. The battle lasted five hours, 
when the enemy fell back. The American loss in this 
battle was four men killed, and three officers and thirty-nine 
men wounded. Among the wounded were Major Ringgold 
and Captain Page, who died soon afterwards. 

10. After the battle of Palo Alto, General Arista took a 
strong position at Resaca de la Palma. General Taylor 
resumed his march on the afternoon of the 9th, and in two 
hours came up to the enemy. The action commenced by 
the firing of the Mexican artillery, which was promptly 
returned by Ridgely's battery. As the Mexican battery 
proved to be very destructive, he directed Captain May to 
capture it. This he accomplished; his dragoons cut through 
the enemy, seized the cannon, and captured Geneial La 
Vega. The infantry now charged the Mexican line, which 
broke, and the enemy fled with the utmost precipitation. 

11. A message from the President to Congress having 
declared '' that by the act of the Republic of Mexico, a war 
existed between that government and the United States," 
that body authorized the President to call into the field 
fifty thousand volunteers, -and made an appropriation for 
the purpose of carrying on the war (May loth). Soon 
after the battle of Resaca de la Palma, General Taylor with 
his army crossed the Rio Grande, and took possession of 
Matamoras. The Mexican towns of Rcinosa, Meir, Revilht, 
and Camargo, surrendered without resistance. 

12. The general government and the officers of the army 
were now making preparations for carrying the war into 
the interior of Mexico. General Taylor being reinforced, 



200 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

early in September left Camargo, and marched 
against Monterey. On the 19th the army encamped 
near the city, and prepared for an immediate attack. Mon- 
terey was defended by forty pieces of cannon, and more 
than nine thousand troops j it also possessed strong natural 
defences, and massive fortifications. 

13. It being deemed advisable to gain possession of the 
exterior defences and fortifications of the city, General 
"Worth was sent to capture the forts on the Saltillo road 
and the Bishop's Palace. This was successfully accom- 
plished on the 22d, and the town was under the command 
of Worth's artillery. Other divisions of the army, led by 
Generals Butler and Twiggs, made an attack on the opposite 
side of the city, into which they eifected an entrance, and 
advanced by burrowing or digging through from house to 
house. On the 24:th, General Ampudia ofiered to capitu- 
late, and terms being agreed upon, the Mexican troops 
evacuated Monterey, and General Taylor took possession 
of it. The battle and capture of Monterey ended the 
cumpaign of the Rio Grande, in which the American arms 
had been completely successful. 

14. Contemporary with these events is the capture of 
California by Colonel Fremont and Commodores Sloat and 
Stockton, the occupation of New Mexico by General Kear- 
ney, and the surrender of Tampico, Frontiera, and Tabasco 
to Commodore Connor. Colonel Doniphan left Santa Fe 
for Chihuahua with eight hundred men. On his way he 
was attacked by a Mexican force at Bracito. A well-directed 
lire from the Americans put the enemy to flight, and Doni- 
phan pursued his long and wearisome journey, which ended 
by the capture of Chihuahua. 

15. General Taylor remained at Monterey for 
several months after its capture. During this time 



folk's administration. 201 

General Scott liud been sent to Mexico, whore li6 
arrived about the 1st of January, and was joined by 
Oenerals Pillow, Twiggs, Quitman, and Worth, with detach- 
ments from General Taylor's army, for the proposed attack on 
Vera Cruz. General Santa Anna, with an army of twenty- 
two thousand men, was at San Luis Potosi, and it was 
supposed from his movements he intended to advance witb 
his whole army. General Taylor resolved to give him 
battle. For this purpose, leaving fifteen hundred men at 
Monterey, he marched to Saltillo, and on the 4th of February 
encamped at Agua Nueva, where he remained until the 21st. 
Learning that Santa Anna was advancing against him, he 
withdrew to a strong mountain pass called Buena Vistii, 
where, having formed his army in battle array, he awaited 
the approach of the enemy. A summons to surrender was 
despatched to General Taylor, granting him an hour's time 
for consideration. General Taylor promptly declined ac- 
ceding to the summons, and the following morning the 
battle commenced by an attack on the part of the Mexicans, 
The battle continued through the entire day, and though 
the enemy gained partial successes from their overwhelming 
numbers, they were finally repulsed, and left the field. 
This victory ended the war in the northern part of Mexico. 
16. General Scott efiected a landing with his army near 
Vera Cruz, on the 9th of March. The city was invested, 
batteries erected, and, on the 22d, General Scott summoned 
the governor to surrender. The proposition was rejected^ 
and the batteries opened a deadly and destructive fire, 
which continued without intermission until the 26th, when 
the Mexican general made proposals to surrender. Articles 
of capitulation were signed on the following day, and the 
city of Vera Cruz, as well as the strong castle of San Juan 
d'Ulloa, were taken possession of by the American forces. 



202 HISTORY Of THE UNITED STATES. 

17. Soon after the capture of Vera Cm*. 
Lieutenant Hunter captured Alvarado, on ih^ 
Gulf of Mexico, and in April Commodore Perry gained 
possession of Tuspan. General Worth being temporarily 
appointed governor of Vera Cruz, the army on the 8th of 
April commenced its march towards the city of Mexico. 
General Santa Anna, defeated at Buena Vista, had now- 
fortified the heights of Cerro Gordo, and, at the head 
of fifteen thousand men, looked down on the advancing 
Americans. 

18. General Scott, who knew that an attack in front 
would be useless, ordered a road to be cut to the left of the 
heights ascending in the rear of the Mexican forts. In the 
night heavy cannon were taken to the heights, and opened 
a destructive fire on the enemy on the morning of the 18th. 
The strong fortress* of Cerro Gordo was taken by storm, and 
the Mexicans were totally routed. Santa Anna escaped 
and reached Jalapa, closely pursued by the victorious army. 

19. The following day the Americans entered the town 
of Jalapa, and on the 22d they took the fortress of Perote. 
On the 15th of May, La Puebla* was in the occupancy of 
the American army, and became their head-quarters until 
the following August. War and disease had thinned their 
ranks, and it was necessary that the soldiers should have a 
season of rest after their severe labors. Reinforcements 
also were requisite to enable them to complete the work of 
conquest. The government had in the mean time sent an 
agent (Mr. Trist) to make overtures of peace to the Mexican 
government. 

20. General Scott, being reinforced by fresh troops sent 
by way of Vera Cruz, left Puebla early in August on his 

* Puebla de los Angelos, "City of the Angels." 



polk'b administration. 203 

inarch towards the capital. The route led the arinj 
across the Cordilleras, from whose lofty heights 
they locked down on the vast plain of Mexico. No enemy 
opposed their march until the 19th, when they arrived in 
front of the strong fortress of St. Antonio, with the height^! 
of Churubusco on' the right, covered with cannon, and close 
by the fortified camp of Contreras. 

21. Early on the morning of the 20th, General Smith* 
marched to the attack on Contreras. General Valencia wa.-j 
at the head of six thousand Mexicans, and General Santa 
Anna stood ready to support him with a powerful force- 
When the arrangements of the Americans were completed, 
they made an impetuous attack, djished into the intrench- 
ments, and drove out the enemy, in the short space of 
seventeen minutes. St. Antonio was evacuated shortly 
after this battle. 

22. Churubusco was the next point of attack. Tlii? 
consisted of a strong breastwork at the head of a bridge, 
a church strongly fortified, strong military outworks, and a 
powerful army, commanded personally by Santa Anna. 
The battle commenced early in the afternoon, and continued 
with unabated fury for three hours, when Santa Anna 
abandoned the field, and with his army fled to the capital. 

23. The day succeeding tliese fiercely-contended battles^ 
propositions were made by Santa Anna for an armistice. 
This was mutually agreed upon, but its provisions were 
shamefully violated by the Mexican general. On the 7th 
of September, General Scott declared the armistice to be at 
an end, and hostilities again commenced. On the 8th. an 
attack was made by General Worth on FA Molinos del 
Ucy (the King's Mills). The troops were at first repulsed. 

* General Persifer F. Smith, of Louisiana. 



204 



184:7. 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



but returning to the charge they fought despe- 



rately for an hour, when the Mexicans were totally 
routed. 

24. On the 12th, Chapul tepee was attacked by a heavy 
cannonade and bombardment. On the 13th, the besiegers 
commenced a furious asssault, which resulted in the capture 
of the castle, and the pursuit of the flying enemy to the 
very gates of Mexico. Santa Anna and the officers oi' 
government fled that night, and the next day (Septem- 
ber 14th) General Scott directed Generals \Yorth and 
Quitman to enter the city, and plant the American flajr 




OKUKRAL SCOTT'S ENTRY INTO MEXICO. 



on the summit of the National Palace. General Scott then 
with the main body of the army made his triumphal but 
peaceful entry into the heart of that capital so renowned in 
American, Spanish, and Mexican history. 

25. The occupation of the capital, and the flight of Santa 
Anna, put an end to the Mexican War ; for although some 



polk's administration. 205 

unimportant skirmishes occurred soon after, and 
an insurrection broke out in the city, the Mexican,^ 
were not able to oppose an eflcctual resistance to the vic- 
torious Americans. On the 2d of February, 18 i8. 
a treaty of peace was signed by Mr. Trist, on the 
part of the United States, and commissioners appointed by 
the Mexican Congress. This treaty, with some modifica- 
tions, was adopted by both governments, and on the 19tli 
of June the proclamation of the President announced thut 
peace existed between Mexico and the United States. 

26. By this treaty, New Mexico and California were 
transferred to the United States. All captured posts were 
to be given up, and fifteen millions of dollars were to be 
paid to the Mexican government for the ceded territory. 
On the 12th of June, our army left the city of Mexico. 
and soon after, all the posts which had been held by the 
American soldiery were evacuated. The discovery of gold 
in California led to an immense emigration to that distant 
region and ita settlement as a teiTitory by adventurers from 
the Atlantic and Western States. John Quincy i\daTn:i 
was stricken down with illness in the Hou^^c of llcpresenta- 
tives, and died the following day. 

27. During this year, Wisconsin was admitted as a state 
into the Union^ being the thirtieth in number. Wisconsin 
was first settled by the French at Green Bay in 1690. 
Oregon and Minnesota were erected into territorial govern- 
ments soon after the admission of Wisconsin. The presi- 
dential election resulted in the election of Zachary Taylor 
for President. Millard Fillmore was elected Vice-Presi- 
dent, and Mr. Polk's administration termjnatcj on the 3d 

of March, 1849. Ue retired to his residence, 
where he died on the 15th of June. 
18 



206 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Questions on James K. PoWs Administration. — 1. "Who had been 
elected President and Vice-President ? What is said of Texas ? "W hat 
did Mexico threaten ? Where was General Taylor sent? Commodore 
Stockton ? In what year and where did General Jackson die ? 

2. When was Texas admitted as a state ? By what nations hud 
Texas been claimed ? When and by whom was Texas fii'st settled ? 
Where and by whom was a settlement made in 1690? 

3. Give an account of the settlement of Texas by citizens of the 
United States. Battle of San Jacinto. 

4. Give a further account of the history of Texas. 

5. What was done by Congress in 1846? How far to the nortlk 
did the President claim Oregon ? How far south was it claimed 
by the British ? How was it settled by the commissioners ? 

6. When was Iowa admitted? When and by whom was th« 
country first visited ? When, where, and by whom was the first 
settlement made? 

7. What movement was made by General Taylor in MarcU 7 
What place had been previously fortified ? What did the Mexican 
troops do ? Give the particulars. 

8. What did General Taylor now do ? In whose charge did he 
leave the fort ? What was done by the Mexicans at Matamoras ? 
Who was killed in this engagement ? 

9. On General Taylor's return from Point Isabel, where was .% 
Mexican force drawn up to oppose him ? What was the number of 
the respective armies? Describe the battle, and the American Iosj^. 

10. What did General Arista do after the battle ? Describe the 
battle of Resaca de la Palma. Who was captured ? What is eaid 
of the Mexican line ? 

11. What communication did the President make to Congress ' 
What did Congress do ? What did General Taylor do after the 
battle of Resaca de la Palma ? What Mexican towns surrendered ? 

12. What did General Taylor do in September? How was 
Monterey defended ? 

13. What was General Worth directed to do? Who attacked 
the opposite side of the city? What did General Ampudia then 
propose ? What did this battle put an end to ? 

14. By whom was California captured ? New Mexico ? What 
places were taken by Commodore Connor? Describe the expe- 
dition of Colonel Doniphan. 



■<~'' P0I/K.'8 ADMINISTRATION. 207 

15. When did General Scott arrive in Mexico ? By whom wa« 
be joined ? Where was General Santa Anna ? What did General 
Taylor now do ? At what place did he await the enemy ? Describe 
the battle of Buena Vista. What did this victory put an end to? 

16. When did General Scott land near Vera Cruz? When did 
the attack on the city commence ? What proposal was made by 
the Mexican general ? What was surrendered ? 

17. What ports were captured by Lieutenant Hunter? By 
Commodore Perry? Wlien did the army march towards the city 
of Mexico ? What did General Santa Anna do ? 

18. What was ordered by General Scott? What was done in 
the night? On the 18th of April? Give the result of the battle 
of Cerro Gordo. To wliat place did Santa Anna escape ? 

19. What did the Americans do on the 19th? On the 22d? 
What became the head-quarters of the army ? Who had been sent 
by the government to make overtures of peace ? 

20. AVhen did General Scott leave Puebla ? Describe the route 
Near to what fortified places did the army arrive on the 10th of 
August ? 

21. Describe the attack on Contreras. Name the generals en- 
gaged. What is said of St. Antonio ? 

22. Of what did Churubusco consist ? Name the other defences. 
Describe the battle. What is said of Santa Anna ? 

23. What was agreed upon the day after the battle ? What wa.* 
declared by General Scott on the 7th of September? What took 
place on the 8th ? Describe the battle. 

24. What place was attacked on the 12th? Describe the battle 
of Chapultepec. What was done by Santa Anna and the officers 
of government ? Who were sent by Gcnei*al Scott to take possession 
of the city? What did General Scott do on the 15th of September? 

25. When was a treaty of peace signed by commissioners? 
When was peace proclaimed ? 

26. State the conditions of the treaty. When did the American 
army leave Mexico? What led to the settlement of California? 

27. When was Wisconsin admitted as a state ? When and by 
whom was Wisconsin settled? What wore erected into territorial 
governments? Who were elected President and Vice President ? 
When did Mr. Polk's administration terminate ? When did he die? 



^208 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



TAYLOR'S AND FILLMORE'S ADMINISTRATIONS. 

1. On the 5th of March, President Taylor entered 
on the duties of his office. The absorbing topi(r 
which occupied the attention of citizens at the time was tho 
gold found in immense quantities in California, and a con- 
tinued tide of emigration was pouring to the golden region. 
A convention of delegates assembled at Monterey on the 
1st of September, and adopted a state constitution, which 
excluded slavery. This constitution was laid before 
Congress at its next session, and produced great 
excitement in the discussions which followed. The article 
relating to slavery engendered the strongest sectional feel- 
ings, aod many predicted the dissolution of the Union. 

2. In the midst of the tumult Mr. Clay, the distinguished 
Senator from Kentucky, suggested a plan of compromise. 
The whole matter was referred to a committee who reported 
a bill containing a number of provisions. It was discussed 
for four months in Congress, and its respective measures 
separately considered and adopted. The measures recom- 
mended were, 1st. That California should be admitted into 
the Union as a free .state, having its territorial extent from 
Oregon to the Mexican possessions ; 2d. That the country 
east of California, containing the Mormon settlements near 
the Great Salt Lake, should be erected into a territory called 
Utah, without mention of slavery; od. That New Mexico 
should be erected into a territory without any stipulations 
respecting slavery, and that ten millions of dollars should 
be paid to Texas from the Federal treasury, in purchase of 
her claims; 4th. That the slave trade in the District of 
Columbia should be abohshed; 5th. That an efficient law 



flLLMORE's ADMINISTRATION. 209 

««r« should be passed for the arrest and return of fugi- 
tive slaves. 

o. While these measures were under discussion, a deep 
and sorrowful sensation was produced throughout the nation 
by the death of the President, after a short illness. His 
dt^ath took place on the 9th of July, and, agreeably to the 
Constitution, Millard Fillmore took the oath of office on the 
day following, and became President of the United States. 
The compromise measures, which had been so long under 
discussion, were adopted; among which was the admission 
of California as the thirty-first state of the Union. ltd 
Hcttlement and growth has been rapid beyond a precedent, 
and it gives to the Union an empire on the shores of the 
Pacific. California was first settled at Los Angelos, by the 
Spaniards, in 1769. 

4. In the autumn of 1851 twenty-one millions of 
acres were purchased by the United States govern- 
ment from the Indian tribes of Minnesota. Another tract 
was soon after purchased from the Snow Sioux, and the pay- 
ments for Indian lands amounted to three millions of dol- 
lars. Much interest was manifested by the visit of Lewis 
Kossuth, the exiled governor of Hungary. He arrived in 
New York on the 4th of December, and was received with 
the highest marks of respect by the public authorities of 
all our principal cities. He wished to enlist the aid and 
sympathy of our government for his downtrodden country, 
but the policy always pursued here forbade any iiiterforeucL 
in the public affairs of foreign nations. Kossuth, however, 
received the warmest sympathy of all classes, and material 
aid from private contributions. 

5. Two distinsruished statesmen and eloquent 
orators died in the year 1852. One was Henry 

Clay, who had been for more than fifty years in public life, 
18* 



210 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

and, at the time of his decease, represented the stat€ 
of Kentucky in the United States Senate. The 
other death which the nation mourned was that of Daniel 
Webster, the Secretary of State, and who, like Mr. Clay, 
had always eloquently advocated and upheld the honor and 
interests of his country. 

6. After the settlements on the Pacific coast had assumed 
great national importance, the government felt the necessity 
of commercial intercourse with Japan, and fitted out an 
expedition under command of Commodore M. C. Perry, for 
the purpose of soliciting from the Emperor of Japan the 
negotiation of a treaty of commerce and friendship between 
the two nations. The mission was successful, and the most 
friendly feelings exist between the two governments. At 
the presidential election held this year, Franklin Pierce, 
of New Hampshire, was elected President, and William 
R. Kinor, of Alabama, Vice-President. A new 

1853. 

territory, called Washington, taken from Oregon, 
was formed, and the bill became a law on the 2d of March, 
the close of Mr. Fillmore's administration. 

Questions on Taylor's and Fillmore's Administrations. — 1. What is 
eaid of the constitution of the state of California? Of the article 
excluding slavery ? 

2. What did Mr. Clay do ? What were the stipulations of the 
compromise act? 

3. What sorrowful event took place ? When did the President 
die, and who succeeded him ? What is said of the admission of 
California ? When and by whom was it first settled ? 

4. What purchases were made by government? 

5. What is said of Henry Clay ? Daniel Webster ? 

6. For what purpose was an expedition sent to Japan ? What 
is said of the mission and its result ? Who were elected President 
and Vice-President ? What new tei-ritory was formed ? 



Pierce's administration. 211 



FRANKLIN PIERCE'S ADMINISTRATION. 

, „^^ 1. President Pierce took the oath of office on the 
4th of March, 1853, and entered on the duties of 
President. Mr. King never took his seat as Vice-President. 
His ill health led him to seek the warmer climate of Cuba, 
where he spent the winter. He died April 18th, soon after 
his return to his residence in Alabama. 

2. Some dispute occurred between rival claimants for the 
Mesilla Valley. It was claimed by New Mexico as consti- 
tuting a part of its southern boundary, and it was also 
claimed by the Mexican government as part of the state of 
Chihuahua. The governor of the latter state took military 
possession of the disputed territory, and it was feared a col- 
lision would take place between the two governments. But 
the difficulty was adjusted by a treaty, by which the Mesilla 
Valley and the tract of country now constituting the terri 
tory of x^rizona was conveyed to the United States. B^ 
this treaty the United States agreed to pay to Mexico th< 
sum of twenty millions of dollars. 

3. In January a bill was introduced into Con 
gress proposing to erect the immense region west 
of the Missouri, to the Rocky Mountains, into two districts, 
t/O be called Nebraska and Kansas, and repealing the Mis- 
souri Compromise, giving to the people of each territory the 
right to be admitted into the Union either as free or slave 
i^tates. The discussion of this bill led to intense excitement, 
but it finally passed both houses and became a law. 

4. At this time war was waged against Russia by Great 
Britain, France, and Turkey, and an incident occurred 
which threatened for a time the interruption of the ami- 



212 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

cable relations which existed between Encfland and 
America. It was evident that enlistments of men 
to aid the British in the war in the Crimea were made hy 
the sanction of Mr. Crampton, the British minister. The 
government requested that Mr. Crampton might be recalled, 
but several months having elapsed before the demand was 
citmplied with, the President dismissed the minister and 
tlie consuls at New York, Philadelphia, and Cincinnati. 

5. The repeal of the Missouri Compromise opened 
the territory of the United States to settlers from 
all sections of the Union. An immense number of avowed 
anti-slavery persons at once rushed to Kansas, and founded 
a number of towns. The pro-slavery men also went in 
large numbers from Missouri, and a reign of terror and 
civil war raged for more than a year in that ill-fated terri- 
tory. The events have been of such recent occurrence, and 
the statements so varying and contradictory, it is not pos- 
sible, at this time, to write a true and impartial history 
which shall render justice to the contestants for rule iu 
Kansas. 

xi 6. The presidential campaign excited much in- 

terest throughout the country. Three candidated 
were nominated : — Millard Fillmore by the American party, 
J»mes Buchanan by the Democratic party, and John C. 
Fremont by the Republicans. The electoral election wa.s 
held November 4th, and resulted in the choice of James 
Buchanan, of Pennsylvania, for President, and John C. 
Brecken ridge, of Kentucky, for Vice-President. 

Questions on Franklin Pierce's Administration. — 1. What is said 
of Mr. King, the Vice-President ? 

2. Who were claimants of the Mesilla Valley ? How was the 
difl&culty settled ? What did the United States agree to pay t« 
Mexico ? 



Buchanan's administration. 213 

3. What did the bill introduced into Congress propose to do ? 
What did it repeal ? What is said of the discussion of this bill ' 

4. By whose sanction were enlistments for the British army 
reade? What diplomatic agents were dismissed in consequence? 

6. To what territory was there a rush of settlers ? "What pre- 
vailed in Kaqsas ? 

6. What three candidates were nominated for the Presidency ? 
Who was elected ? Who was elected Vice-President? 



1837. 



JAMES BUCHANAN'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. Mr. Buchanan took the oath of office and 
entered on ita duties on the 4th of March, 1857, 
and Mr. Breckenridge also took his seat as President of the 
Senate. For some time a threatening state of affairs existed 
in Utah. The Mormons, who were tie settlers of that 
territory, refused obedience to the laws of the United States, 
or to submit to any authority other than that derived from 
Brigham Young, the head of the Mormon church, and the 
acting governor of the territory. By order of the President, 
Colonel Cummings, of Missouri, was appointed governor, 
and a strong body of troops were sent to enforce his autho 
rity, and suppress rebellion. 

2. After a toilsome march, the troops reached Salt Lake 

City. No opposition was offered to the entrance 
of the troops, but many of the inhabitants left their 
homes, and moved to the southern portion of the territory. 
Commissioners were sent by the Federal government to 
induce the Mormons to return, promising the withdrawal 
of the troops. These terms were acceded to, and the diffi- 
culty terminated. 

3. The President recommended to Conijress the admission 



214 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

of Kansas as a state into the Union, and assent to 

183 8. 

the constitution adopted at Lecompton. This waa 
strongly objected to, on the ground that the constitution 
had never been submitted to a popular vote, and that it 
waa at variance with the wishes of the majority. In the 
Senate a small majority voted in favor of the bill, but it 
was rejected in the House. A substitute was adopted, to 
which the Senate refused its assent. A committee of 
conference was then appointed by both houses, and a bill 
reported by them was passed by both branches of Congress, 
and approved by the President, but rejected by the people 
of Kansas, at an election held in the territory. 

4. During this session of Congress, Minnesota waa ad- 
mitted into the Union. The growth and settlement of this 
new state has been very rapid, having till recently been ft 
hunting-ground for the Indian, and a habitation for the 
wild beast of the forest. It was first settled at St. Paul, in 
1S46, by emigrants from the Eastern States. 

5. The most important act passed by Congress 
at the present session, was the admission of Oregon 
into the Union. The bill for its admission had been passed 
by the Senate at its last session, but was not acted on by the 
House until the 12th of February. Oregon was first settled 
at Astoria, in 1811, by emigrants from the Eastern States. 

6. The debates consequent on the Kansas bill effected a 
division among the members of Congress. One portion 
opposed the admission of Kansas under the Lecompton 
Constitution, because of its slavery proclivities, and because 
the will of the people had not been tested with regard to 
their wishes on the subject. The others considered that 
injustice had been done to the South by the rejection of 
slavery, as introduced by actual settlers, and their votea 
were for the Lecompton Constitution. 



BtrCHANAN^S ADMINISTRATION. 215 

7. One of the most prominent events of 1860 

I860 . . * 

was the official visit of the Japanese ambassadors. 
They arrived at San Francisco, and thence proceeded to 
Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York, from 
whence they embarked for Japan, highly gratified by their 
visit to the United States. Another pleasing event arose 
from a visit paid by the Prince of Wales, who made quit« 
an extensive journey through Canada and several states 
of the Union. In every part of the United States which 
he visited he was received with respect, and much attention 
was paid him by the corporate bodies of our principal cities 
S. Four candidates were nominated for the Presidency, 
viz.: Stephen A. Douglas, of Illinois ; Abraham Lincoln, 
of Illinois ; John C. Breckenridge, of Kentucky; and John 
Bell, of Tennessee. A very exciting campaign followed the 
nominations, and great anxiety was manifested in the result. 
By the returns, Mr. Lincoln was elected President, and 
Hannibal Hamlin, of Maine, Vice-President. Some of the 
leading politicians in the Southern States denounced the 
election as sectional, and hostile to the rights of the South 
and threatened to withdraw from the Union. 

9. This threat was first carried into effect by South Caro- 
lina. On the 20th of December, that state in convention 
adopted an Act of Secession from the government of the 
United States, declared her own state sovereignty, hoisted 
the palmetto flag, and assumed an attitude of hostility to 
the general government. By this measure she dishonored 
the " Flag of the Union," the " Stars and Stripes," which 
once waved over her battle-fields of Eutaw Springs, Cowpens, 
Hobkirk's Hill, Charleston, and Sullivan's Island. 

10. At the time that South Carolina set the example of 
fecession, Fort Moultrie, in Charleston Harbor, was garri- 
ioned by Major Robert Anderson and a small body of troop» 



216 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Convinced that he could not defend this post, he 
withdrew his forces to Fort Sumter, spikiug the 
guns and burning the gun-carriages of the deserted fort. 
Soon after the evacuation of Fort Moultrie, it was taken 
possession of by the troops of South Carolina, as also Castle 
rinckney. General Cass, Secretary of State, had urged 
the necessity of sending troops to keep possession of the 
forts in the seceding state. This the President refused to 
do, in consequence of which General Cass resigned his 
position, and retired from the cares of government. 

11. Mr. Cobb, Secretary of the Treasury, and 
Mr. Floyd, Secretary of War, resigned their ofl&ccB 
from sympathy with the secessionists. Postmaster-General 
Holt, of Kentucky, was appointed acting Secretary of War, 
and Mr. Dix, of New York, Secretary of the Treasury, 
which departments they filled with marked ability during 
the remaining part of Mr. Buchanan's administration. 

12. The month of January was distinguished for a seriel 
of aggressive acts against the general government. In 
Georgia, Forts Pulaski and Jackson were seized by order 
of the state authorities. The United States revenue cutter 
at Savannah was fired into and captured, and the Arsenal 
at Augusta seized by the state troops. In North Carolina, 
Fort Macon, the forts at Wilmington, and the United States 
Arsenal at Fayette ville, were seized by the state troops. 
In Alabama, the United States Arsenal at Mobile was 
taken, also Fort Morgan, at the mouth of Mobile Bay. 
South Carolina seized the United States Arsenal, Custom- 
House, and Post-Office in Charleston, erected new fortifica- 
tions on Sullivan's and Johnson's Islands, and besieged 
Major Anderson and his garrison in Fort Sumter. 

13. Conventions were in session in several of the discon- 
tented states of the Union, which by their respective acta 



Buchanan's administration. 217 

^ proclaimed that the states they represented no 

longer owed allegiance to the United States govern- 
ment, and declared their secession from it. Mississippi 
did 80 on the 9th of January, Florida and Alabama on the 
11th, Georgia on the 19th, and Louisiana on the 26th. 
The steamer " Star of the West," sent to carry troops and 
provisions to Fort Sumter, was fired on by the secessionist'^ 
in the harbor of Charleston, and obliged to return without 
effecting her mission. 

14. Mr. Thompson, of Mississippi, Secretary of the In- 
terior, resigned his position in the cabinet, dissatisfied at 
the determination of the President to maintain the rights 
of the government. The aggressions on the Federal go- 
vernment were still continued. In New Orleans, the United 
States Mint and Custom-House, and Marine Hospital, were 
)!5eized by the state authorities. In Florida, Fort Barranca.<i 
and the Pensacola Navy Yard were seized. Lieutenant 
Slemmer, in command, withdrew to Fort Pickens, which 
he held against the forces of the enemy. 

15. On the 29th of January, Kansas was admitted into 
the Union as the thirty-fourth state. Its constitution pro- 
hibits slavery. This state was formed out of the countr}' 
formerly known as the Indian Territory, and was settled by 
emigrants from other sections, principally, however, from 
New England. It was long the arena of factious strife 
between the advocates of slavery and its opposers. The 
latter, however, outnumbered the former, and, after much 
delay and opposition, succeeded in having their constitution 
concurred in by Congress, and their territory erected into a 
sovereign state. 

16. Commissioners from South Carolina asked of the 
President the withdrawal of government troops from the 
fttate, and the surrender of the forts, to which measures ho 

19 



218 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

refused to accede. Early in February, a conference 
was held in Washington, in which eleven states 
ATere represented. The object of this assembly was to 
devise means to preserve peace, bring back the rebellious 
8tat€s to their allegiance, ask Congress and the st^U"! 
governments to repeal obnoxious laws, and to recommend 
and adopt measures conducive to harmony. But the 
intentions of this peace conference entirely failed, and 
they could agree on no acceptable course of measures to 
arrest the career of secession and dismemberment. 

17. A convention of the six rebelling states was held at 
Montgomery, Alabama. Three delegates were also present 
from North Carolina. This convention usurped a pro- 
-Tlsional government, and elected Jefiferson Davis their so- 

ealled President, and Alexander H. Stephens their Vice- 
President. General Twiggs, commander of the United 
Stiites forces in Texas, traitorously surrendered all the forts 
in that state to the secessionists, and directed the with- 
drawal of the troops. 

18. During this session of Congress, Dacotah, Nevada, 
and Colorado were organized as territories, destined in 
future time to take their places as states in the Federal 
Union. On the 11th of February, Abraham Lincoh), 
President elect, left his home at Springfield, Illinois, for 
the seat of government, where he arrived on the 23d. In 
the cities and towns through which he passed, he was 
received with the warmest expressions of respect and en- 
thusiasm. Mr. Buchanan remained in Washington until 
after the inauguration of his successor, when he retired to 
private life. 

19. The administration now about entering on the 
threshold of its duties has much to encounter. Whether 
?t will be able to stem the tide of eecession, which, by its 



Buchanan's admIxNistration. 219 

encroaching waves, threatens to sweep away our 
ancient landmarks, it is not our province to conjec- 
ture or predict. It will have to encounter rebellion, treason, 
civil war, the prostration of commerce, the failure of reve- 
nue, and an increasing public debt. Instead of thirty-four 
states, united by common ties, it will behold a formidable 
array of declared enemies, who have rudely attempted to 
sover the bond of union framed by the wisdom of their 
lathers. It will be incumbent on the administration now 
a3i^uming the reins of government, " to see that the laws 
be faithfully executed," and it will be bound by a solemn 
obligation to suppress rebellion at any sacrifice, except the 
surrender of honor and principle. 

Questions on James Buchanan's Administration. — 1. What is said 
of the Mormons in Utah ? Who was appointed governor by the 
Pi-esident? Who were sent to Utah? 

2. What did the inhabitants of Salt Lake City do ? What did 
the government promise to do ? 

3. What did the President recommend to Congress ? On what 
ground was the admission of Kansas objected to? Was the bill 
passed ? What is said of a subsequent bill ? 

4. When was Minnesota admitted into the Union ? What 13 
S'lid of the growth and settlement of this new state ? When, 
where, and by whom was it first settled ? 

5. When was Oregon admitted ? When and where was it first 
settled ? 

6. Why was the Lccompton Constitution opposed ? Whj waa it 
advocated? 

7. What cities were visited by the Japanese ambassadors ? 
What other distinguished person visited the United States in 
I860? 

8. Name the candidates nominated for the Presidency. Wha 
irere elected President and Vice-President ? 

9. What state seceded from the Union ? 

10. Where is Fort Moultrie t By whom was it garrisoned ? To 



220 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

what other fort did the commander withdraw his forces ? What 
had General Cass urged the President to do ? 

11. What cabinet officers resigned, and why? Who succeeded 
them ? 

12. What government property was seized in Georgia? In 
North Carolina? In Alabama? What was done by South 
Carolina ? 

13. What states passed acts of secession in January? What is 
paid of the Star of the West? 

14. Who resigned his situation in the cabinet, and why? 
What seizures of government property were made in Louisiana? 
In Florida? What is said of Lieutenant Slemmer? 

15. What is said of the admission of Kansas? 

16. What was asked by the commissioners from South Carolina? 

17. Where was the convention of the rebelling states held? 
What states were represented? What was done by General 
Twiggs? 

18. What territories were organized? What is said of Mr. 
Lincoln ? How was he received by the people ? What is 8akl 
c f Mr. Buchanan ? 

19. What will the new administration have to encounter? 



Lincoln's administration. 221 



ABRAHAM LINCOLN'S ADMINISTRATION. 

1. On tln3 4th of March, Mr. Lincohi was inau- 
gurated as President. In his address to the vast 
multitude assembled, he auuouneed his intention of main- 
taining the supremacy of the laws, collecting the public 
revenues, and suppressing rebellion; and called on law- 
abiding citizens to do all in their power to preserve peace 
and uphold the integrity of the Union. 

2. Seven states had by formal acts seceded from the 
Union, and were arrayed in active hostilities against the 
Federal government. These were, South Carolina, Missis- 
iBippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas. 
Major Anderson was besieged in Fort Sumter, and Lieu- 
tenant Slemmer in Fort Pickens. The government mad© 
uo open demonstration of its intentions until April 11th, 
when it notified the insurgents, that the fleet now sent out 
waa destined to supply Fort Sumter. 

3. The authorities at Charleston immediately cut ofif 
Major Anderson's supplies and attacked the fort. Fort 
Moultrie commenced the bombardment, and was followed 
by the batt-eries on Mount Pleasant, Cummings' I*oint, and 
the floating battery, with shot and shell. Firing was kept 
up all day by the enemy, and renewed by Major Anderson 
the following morning (April 13th). But a breach had 
been made in the walls, some of the cannon were dismounted, 
uud the officers' quarters set on fire. With a small number 
of men, who were exhausted from their incessant exertions, 
ihe gallant commander found the fort no longer tenable, 
ttud, raising a flag of truce, agreed to evacuate. Fort 

19* 



222 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Moultrie was much damaged by Anderson^8 fire, 
but there appears to have been no loss of life on 
either side. 

4. The news of the fall of Fort Sumter produced an 
excitement rarely witnessed. Feelings of attachment to 
the Union, and a determination to uphold it, were exhibited 
by all classes of people. In the loyal states secession and 
treason found no favor, and the voice of the people, with 
one accord, declared that rebellion must be suppressed. 
The President issued a proclamation, calling for seventy- 
five thousand militia in defence of the country, and an 
extra session of Congress on the 4th of July. The call of 
the President for troops was promptly responded to, and 
regiments were mustered into service, armed, equipped, 
and sent forward immediately. 

5. As the city of Washington was threatened with an 
attack from the rebels, a number of the newly-levied troops 
hastened to its defence. The first arrival for that purpose 
consisted of five hundred Pennsylvania volunteers, whose 
appearance in the Federal city the 18th of April gave 
great joy to all its loyal inhabitants. On the following 
day a regiment of Massachusetts tro(5ps was assailed in th© 
streets of Baltimore by a rebel mob, and fired on, when three 
of the soldiers were killed and a number wounded. The 
troops returned the fire, and several of the assailants fell. 
A body of unarmed Pennsylvania troops were attacked at 
the depot, and some severely wounded. They at last mad« 
their escape by being sent back in the train (April 19th). 

6. Virginia, by act of a convention, declared for secession. 
This act was dissented from by the western portion of the- 
state, the people of which declared their attachment to the 
Union, and elected delegates to a convention which assem- 
bled at Wheeling. The enemy in Maryland destroyed the 



Lincoln's administration. 



223 




16( 



SXTRT OP HRST TROOPS INTO WASHINOTOX, APRIL 18, 1861. 

361. ^^i^^<^^^ bridges from Havre-de-Grace to Baltimore 
to prevent the passage of troops. This obliged 
the troops leaving from the Middle and Eastern States to 
go by sea, and thence up the Potomac, or to embark at 
Havre-de-Grace, and proceed to Washington by way of 
Annapolis. 

7. The troops at Harper's Ferry, after removing all the 
arms they could with safety, destroyed the public buildings 
and the remaining stock of arms, and retreated to Wash • 
ington. At Portsmouth, Va., the rebels placed obstructions 
in the harbor, to prevent the removal of vessels lying at 
the Navy Yard. In consequence, the government troops 
destroyed the Navy Yard, and a ship on the stocks. The 
other vessels were burnt or sunk to prevent their falling 
into the hands of the enemy. 



224 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

8, Early in May, the President issued his pro- 
clamation, calling into the service of the United 
8tates forty-two thousand volunteers for the army, and 
eighteen thousand seamen for the navy, to serve for the 
term of three years unless sooner discharged. Arkansas, 
Tennessee, and North Carolina withdrew from the Union, 
and now rank with the seceded states. In Missouri stren- 
uous efforts were made by the secessionists to take the 
state out of the Union, but without success. In St. Louis 
en attack was made on the United States troops by the 
rebels. The soldiers fired on the mob, and upwards of 
twenty were killed. A camp had been formed by state 
troops, supposed to be secessionists, which was captured, 
and the troops made prisoners of war. 

9. General Butler and a large body of troops now occu- 
pied Baltimore, and the railroad and bridges having been 
rebuilt, the city again assumed a quiet and orderly con- 
dition. During the month of May three regiments of 
Pennsylvania troops encamped near Fort MeHenry. They 
were under the command of Greneral Cadwalader. The 
ifiecessionists erected a number of batteries on the Elizabeth 
lliver, the approach to Norfolk. They also put up a battery 
at Sewall's Point, which would command the vessels block- 
ading James River. The " Star" opened a cannonade, and 
while thus engaged. Captain Ward's steam flotilla from New 
^'ork arrived. By request the captain took post with his 
vessel, the " Freeborn, '^ within five hundred yards of the 
fchore, which dislodged the party and destroyed the battery. 
It was, however, afterwards rebuilt, and continued for 
several months in the occupancy of the rebels. 

10. On the 24th of May, a body of troops took possession 
of Arlingtoh Heights, Va., and then marched to Alexandria. 
At this place a tragical event occurred. Colonel Ellsworth, 



Lincoln's administration. 225 

commander of the New York Zouaves, who had 

1861. ' 

taken down a secession flag from the Marshall 
House, was assailed hy the proprietor, and killed hy a dis- 
charge from a double-barrelled gun. The assassin instantly 
fell, pierced with bullets. Colonel Ellsworth was a young 
man, highly esteemed, and possessing a great degree of 
military skill. His death was universally lamented. 

11. Early in June, Stephen A. Douglas, the distinguished 
senator and statesman, died at his residence in Chicago, 
Illinois. His death was looked on as a great national 
calamity. Two columns of troops, under General McClel- 
lan's command, surprised a camp of the rebels near Phil- 
lippi, Va., routing them completely, and capturing a large 
amount of arms, ammunition, horses, and camp equipage. 
Colonel Kelly, commander of one of the detachments, was 
severely wounded. 

12. Early on the morning of June 10th, General Butler 
sent detachments from Fortress Monroe and Newport News 
against the enemy, who had formed an intrenched camp at 
Great Bethel, on the Yorktown road. At midnight, Colonel 
Duryea's Zouaves and Colonel Townsend's Albany regiment 
orossed the river at Hampton, and marched onward. Colo- 
nel Bendix's regiment, and detachments of Vermont and 
Massachusetts troops, moved from Newport News, to form 
a junction with the troops first named. Unfortunately, in 
the darkness of the night, each detachment mistook the 
other for the enemy, and commenced a fire, by which one 
man was killed and several wounded. 

13. At daybreak, Colonels Allen's and Carr's regiments 
marched from the fortress and joined the main body, which 
now advanced on the enemy, who were intrenched behind 
a masked battery. An unsuccessful attempt was made to 
take the battery, when General Pierce, commander of the 



226 HISTORY OP TUK UNITED STATES. 

expedition, ordered a retreat. Lieutenant John 
T. Greble, of the regular army, a brave and ao- 
complished officer, who had rendered efficient service in 
the action, had just obeyed the order to retreat, and en- 
deavored to withdraw his command, when he was struck 
on the head by a ball from the rebel battery and instantly 
killed. His death was universally lamented throughout 
the Union, and particularly in Philadelphia, his birthplace, 
where he was favorably known and beloved by hosts of 
friends. Major Winthrop, of Massachusetts, a brave and 
gallant officer, also fell in this disastrous engagement. 

14. In Missouri the rebels at Booneville, under Jackson 
and Price, were attacked by General Lyon, who crossed 
the river below the town and opened on them with a heavy 
fire. The rebels now retreated into a wood, whence they 
fired on the Federal troops. General Lyon then ordered a 
retreat, when the rebels left their position, and followed 
him. General Lyon then faced about, and opened a heavy 
cannonade on the enemy, who were efiectually repulsed. 

15. Captain Ward, of the United States steamer Free- 
born, landed twenty-five men at Matthias Point, with the 
intention of erecting a battery. Lieutenant Chaplin, of 
the Pawnee, had charge of the expedition. A breastwork 
was hastily constructed, but before it could be mounted 
with guns, they were surprised by the enemy, who poured 
in a heavy fire of musketry. Under cover of the guns of 
the Freeborn, the crews put off" in their boats, and some 
escaped by swimming. Captain Ward behaved with great 
coolness, directing the fire from the steamer, when he waa 
struck with a ball and killed. The only life lost was that 
of the brave commander (June 27th). 

16. The troops under General Patterson crossed the 
Potomac at Williamsport. About a mile from Falling 



Lincoln's administration. 227 

Waters they encountered the enemy, and a sharp 
conflict ensued, resulting in the defeat of the 
rebels. At Hainesvi!le a ntand wa.s made by the rebels, 
who were again repulsed (July 2d). Agreeably to the cal! 
of the President, Congress met July 4th. The Presidcnt'p 
Message, read to both houses on the second day of the 
session, recited, in calm and dispassionate language, tho 
history of the rebellion, the secession of several states, and 
the seizure of the forts and public revenues within their 
borders. He recommended the adoption of vigorous mea- 
sures for the suppression of the rebellion. 

17. A large majority of both houses responded cordially 
to the recommendations of the President, by voting the 
necessary supplies of men and money to support the wan 
In the Senate, Messrs. Mason, Hunter, Clingman, Bragg. 
Chestnut, Nicholson, Sebastian, Mitchell, WigfaM, and 
Hemphill, from the seceding states, were expelled. 

18. An engagement took place between the United 
States troops under Colonel Sigel, and the Missouri 6tat<» 
troops under Jackson and Price. The enemy's force was 
greatly superior in numbers, but Colonel Sigel possessed 
more efficient artillery. The battle commenced at ten 
o'clock, and at noon the battery of the enemy was silenced. 
The infantry now advanced, and the enemy's centre wa* 
broken. The rebels sent a detachment to capture Sigcl'p 
baggage train, which was three miles in the rear. Colonel 
Sigel ordered a retreat, and sent word to the baggage train 
to advance, and by these means frustrated the enenij'p 
intentions. He then retired to Carthage, and thence tc 
Sarcoxie, without molestation (July 5th). 

19. A battle was fought at Rich Mountain, Ya., wherf 
the enemy under Colonel Pcgram were entrenched. Gene 
ral Kosecrans marched against them, when a desperate 



228 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

fie;ht ensued, which lasted an hour, when th« 

1861. , 

enemy fled. After the battle, General McClellan 
pushed on to Beverly. His men took possession of th« 
enemy's works, all his cannon, and a large amount ol' 
wagons, tents, &c. Soon after. Colonel Pegram, with six- 
hundred men, surrendered himself and command as pri- 
soners of war (July 11th). 

20. Another battle took place near St. Greorge, Tucker 
County, Va., between the rebels and the pursuing foreen 
of General McClellan. General Morris commanded the 
division, and completely routed the enemy, with a los^s of 
two hundred killed and one thousand prisoners. General 
Garnett, commander of the rebels, fell while endeavoring 
to rally his troops. General McDowell, with his army, 
marched against Fairfax Court House, of which they took 
possession without resistance, the enemy evacuatin.L^ th« 
town on the approach of the Federal troops, leaving a 
quantity of provisions and military stores behind. The 
army then advanced to Centreville. which they occupied 
without opposition (July 17th). 

21. General Tyler marched with his division from Cen- 
treville, and learning that the rebels had masked batteries 
at Bull Kun, sent out a detachment to reconnoitre. The 
troops came upon the masked battery, which opened a 
destructive fire, that was promptly returned by the Federal' 
troops. Their supply of grape and canister shot, however, 
failing, they were obliged to retire (July 18th). 

22. The whole army, under command of General Mc- 
Dowell, advanced towards the rebel batteries, and the 
following morning (July 21st) commenced an attack. At 
two o'cloek, by a bright moonlight, the march began. 
The second division, Colonel Hunter, led the advance. 
The first division, led by General Tyler, advanced in nearly 



Lincoln's administration. 229 

a parallel column. At daybreak they reached 
Bull Hun, and their guns opened on the enemy's 
works. The firing was responded to by three batteries, 
and continued till 11 A. M. The enemy's fire then ceased, 
and a charge was made on the batteries, which in a few 
minutes were taken, the Confederate flag torn down, and 
the Stars and Stripes raised. 

23. But now a sad reverse occurred, and the victory wa/ 
turned into a defeat. While the men were resting from 
their fatigue, and rejoicing in their success, other masked 
batteries opened a destructive fire with musketry and can- 
non. The enemy was invisible, and the late victors were 
oompelled to abandon the batteries they had so gallantly 
captured. They retired in good order under cover of their 
artillery. At three o'clock, the enemy, who had been 
strongly reinforced, charged on the Federal troops, and 
compelled them to retreat. General McDowell had in- 
tended making a stand at Centreville, but such a panic 
seized the army, followed by an overwhelming force, that 
his intention was fruitless. The army retreated rapidlv 
through Centreville and Fairfax, finally stopping ut its old 
entrenchments on the Potomac, 

24. The less of life on both sides in this battle wap 
fearful. The Union army lost many valuable ofiicers, 
among whom were Colonel Cameron, of the 79th New York 
Regiment, Colonel Slocum, 2d II. I., Lt. Colonel Fowler. 
14th N, Y. The plan of the commander-in-chief contem- 
plated a union of the army at Charlcstown, Va., with 
General Mcl^owell, to prevent General Johnston reinforcing 
Beauregard, But this plan was not carried out, and the 
rebel forces at ]5ull Run received such an accession of 
numbers, that they were enabled to drive back the Union 

20 



t^ HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

forces, and capture a large quantity of artillery 
and baggage. 

25. General Lyon, with three columns, under the com- 
mand of himself, Sigel, and Sturgcss, attacked the enemy 
(August 10th) at Wilson's Creek, near Springfield, Mo. 
The engagement was severe, and the enemy fell back 
towards their encampments. Their tents and baggage- 
wagons were burned by the shells of Totten's artillery. 
Oeneral Lyon was killed while leading his detachmeni, 
and the command devolved on General Sigel, who continued 
the pursuit of the enemy till nightfall. Next day he re- 
treated to Springfield, after which he fell back to Rolla, 
with his prisoners and baggage, and waited for reinforce- 
ments. Both sides claimed the victory. 

26. On the 26th of August, a battle took place at Cros* 
Lanes, near Summerville, Va. Colonel Tyler, of the 7th 
Ohio Regiment, with his whole command, was surrounded 
and attacked in front and on both flanks. The LTnited 
States troops cut their way through, formed in line of 
battle, and retreated in good order. An expedition of 
nine vessels under Commodore Stringham and Genera) 
Butler, with one thousand troops, was sent against the forte 
at Hatteras Inlet, N. C. After a severe bombardment, 
Forts Clark and Hatteras were captured, together with 
seven hundred and fifteen men, a large quantity of military 
stores, a brig laden with cotton, and a sloop with provisions 
Rnd stores. None were killed or wounded on the part of 
the United States. The rebels lost eight killed and fifteen 
severely wounded. This victory gave the government 
control of the coast of North Carolina. 

27. In the month of September, a number of battles 
und skirmishes occurred. The first took place at Boone 
Court House, Va., in which the enemy was routed. An 



231 

attack was made on a reconnoitring party at 
Lewinsville, Va., and soon after, Colonel Geary'e 
pickets at Darnstown, Md., were assaulted by about four 
hundred and fifty rebels. Three companies of the 28th 
Pennsylvania Kegimcnt, and two companies of the loth 
Massachusetts, were sent against them, and they were 
routed from every house and breastwork which they had 
occupied. 

28. General Ilosecrans attacked General Floyd, who 
occupied a strong position near Summerville, Va., with an 
army of three thousand men, and sixteen field-pieces. 
Colonel Lytle's regiment was in advance, and drove the 
enemy out of camp. He then advanced against the 
battery, but fell wounded. Colonel Smith, of the 13th 
Ohio Regiment, engaged the enemy on the left, and Colo- 
nel Lowe, of the 19th, in front. Colonel Lowe was killed 
in the early part of the engagement. IMcMullin's battery 
and Snyder's field-pieces silenced two of the rebels' gun». 
The German brigade was led into action, but night coming 
on closed the engagement. In the night, Floyd crossed 
the Gauley River, and escaped. 

29. On the 17th, General Price, with a large force, 
marched against the fort at Lexington, Mo., and de- 
manded its surrender. The brave commander, Colonel 
Mulligan, refused the demand, on which the attack was 
commenced by artillery The engagement continued two 
hours, when the rebels were repulsed with a heavy loss. 
The attack was renewed on the 18th, and continued with- 
out intermission. The enemy cut oif the supply of water, 
and the garrison fought for fifty-nine hours, without any- 
thing to assuage their thirst, until the 20th, when the fort 
was surrendered. No place was ever more bravely de- 
fended, but the desperate valor of the garrison could not 



232 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

avail, against the immense disparity of force 
brought to bear upon them, in addition to their 
sufferings. 

30. Major Gould, with some troops of the 13th Mas- 
sachusetts Regiment, crossed the Potomac for the pur- 
pose of securing twenty-two thousand bushels of wheat 
stored at Harper's Ferry. On the 14th of October, the 
detachment commanded by Colonel Geary crossed the 
river, and on that and the following day succeeded in 
transporting the wheat to the Maryland side. Having 
accomplished the object of their expedition, they were 
about returning to their encampments, when, on the morn- 
ing of the 16th, an attack was made on the outer line of 
pickets, consisting of companies J) and F of the 28th 
Pennsylvania. They were at first driven in, but soon made 
a stand in the town of Bolivar, where they were joined by 
a portion of the Massachusetts regiment and two companies 
of the 3d Wisconsin, all under the command of Colonel 
Geary. 

31. These forces sustained for a time a tremendous fire 
of shot and shell, and repulsed three cavalry charges made 
upon them. A battery from Loudon Heights opened fire 
upon them. About one o'clock. Lieutenant Martin, of the 
New York 9th Artillery, arrived on the field with one of 
James's rifled cannon. He at once, by some well-directed 
shots, silenced the enemy's battery, and disabled a steel 
rifled cannon, which was dragged from the field as useless. 
A furious charge was now made by the combined forces, 
which was successful, compelling the enemy to fly in the 
direction of Charlestown, completely demoralized. 

32. On the 21st of October, by orders of General Stone, 
a body of troops crossed the Potomac at Ball's Bluff. 



Lincoln's administration. 233 

A detachment of Massachusetts troops marched 

1861. '■ 

towards Lecsburg, and were attacked by a large 
force of the enemy concealed in a ravine. Twenty-three 
fell, and the survivors retreated, falling back until rein- 
forced. Colonel Baker, of the California Regiment, now 
took command, and the battle raged with great fury from 
two until four o'clock. Colonel Baker, while actively en- 
gaged, was shot, and fell dead. Lieutenant-Colonel Wistar 
was severely wounded, and the command devolved on 
Colonel Coggeshall, of the New York Tammany Regiment. 
At dusk the order was given to retreat. Th^ troops had 
been brought over in two or three scows, totally inade- 
quate as a means of transportation to make an attack, and 
now nearly uselc^'S, from the numbers pressing in them to 
escape the murderous fire of the rebels. 

33. One of the boats was sunk from being overloaded, 
and many of the fugitives drowned. Others threw their 
arms and knapsacks into the Potomac, and sought safety 
by swimming, narrowly escaping with their lives. Others 
were swept away by a rapid current to a watery grave. 
The United States troops numbered about seventeen hun- 
dred, while the enemy brought three thousand five hundred 
into the field. This was the most unfortunate battle of the 
war J rushed into blindly, rashly, and without due prepara- 
tion, terminating in a bloody massacre. The number of 
killed, wounded, and missing was six hundred and forty, 
many of whom were taken prisoners. Great sorrow was 
felt for the death of Colonel Baker, a senator in Congresa 
from California, and a military officer of great experience. 
The troops behaved bravely, and no blame attaches to ihem 
or their lamented leader. 

34. Lexington, Mo., was recaptured in October, by 
Major White, and another victory was gained at Frederick- 

20* 



234 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

town, in the same state, by Major Schofield, while 

1861. ' , 5 J J ^ ) ^ 

Fremont's body-guard, under Major Zagoui, de- 
feated the rebels at Springfield. At Komney, Va., General 
Kelly gained a complete victory over the rebels, after a 
battle which continued two hours. On the last of the 
month, General Scott tendered his resignation as com- 
mander-in-chief of the army, in consequence of his great 
age and increasing infirmities. General McClellan was 
appointed to succeed him. General Winfield Scott was 
born in Virginia in 1776, and has been distinguished for 
active service during the chief part of his long and useful 
life. 

35. A naval expedition was sent out in October. The 
fleet was under the command of Cominodore Dupont, and 
consisted of fifty vessels. It encountered very stormy 
weather, and a number of the smaller vessels were wrecked. 
But on the evening of the 4th of November, the lighter 
transports and gunboats were anchored in the roadstead of 
Port Royal, S. C. On the following morning the Wabash 
crossed the bar, followed by the Atlantic, the Vanderbilt, 
and other vessels of deep draught. On the 7th an attack 
wxs made on the forts at Hilton Head and Bay Point. 
The battle continued four hours, when a flag of truce was 
raised on Fort Walker. General Sherman, commanding 
the land forces, took possession of the fort and the cannon, 
which had been abandoned by the rebels. The town of 
Beaufort was deserted by its white inhabitants, and taken 
possession of by the United States troops. 

36. Commodore Wilkes, of the San Jacinto, arrested 
*.he rebel commissioners, Messrs. Slidell and Mason, on 
their way to England. They were taken from the English 
mail steamer Trent, and sent to Fort Warren, as prisoners. 
A^'hen the news of their capture reached England, there 



Lincoln's administration. 235 

iSGi. ^^^ ^^ immense degree of excitement, and clamor 
for war, to avenge the insulted flag and the natioiial 
honor. Negotiations took place between the British niin- 
istry and the Secretary of State, which resulted in tlu; 
surrender of the rebel ambassadors to the British govern- 
ment, and their release from captivity, and thus the difli- 
culty terminated. 

37. In the Senate a motion was made to expel John C. 
Breckinridge for having joined the rebels, and passed 
without dissent. Subsequently, Johnson and Polk, sena- 
tors from Missouri, were expelled for the same cause. 
In December, a battle occurred in Western Virginia; 
General Milroy commanding the United States forces, and 
General Johnson the rebels. The latter were driven into 
their fortifications, when the Union forces retired. Another 
battle took place near Warrentou, Mo., when Colonel Davis 
defeated the rebels, took twelve hundred prisoners, including 
several officers of distinction, a thousand horses, a thousand 
stand of arms, and a largo quantity of baggage and sup- 
plies. 



Questions on Abraham Lincoln's Administration. — 1. What did 
the President announce in his inaugural address ? 

2. What states had seceded from th6 Union ? What is said of 
Major Anderson ? Lieutenant Slemmer ? What did the govern- 
ment do on the 11th of April? 

3. What was done by the authorities of Charleston? Give an 
account of the bombardment. 

4. What effect was produced by the fall of Fort Sumter? What 
did the President call for in his proclamation ? 

5. W^hat city was threatened with an attack ? What troops first 
arrived for its defence ? What is said of a Massachusetts regi- 
ment? Of Pennsylvania troops? When did this occur? 

6. What was done by Virginia ? What did the western portion 
do ? What was done by the rebels in Maryland ? 



236 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

7. What was done by the troops at Harper's Ferry ? At Ports- 
mouth, Va. ? 

8. How many troops did the President now call for? HoTi 
many seamen? What states now seceded? What was done in 
Missouri ? In St. Louis ? 

9. What was done by General Butler ? What troops were sent 
to Baltimore ? Near what fort were they encamped ? Where did 
the secessionists of Virginia erect batteries ? Describe the attack 
on Sewall's Point. 

10. Of what places did the Federal troops take possession? 
What tragical event occurred ? 

11. When and where did Senator Douglas die? What is said 
of his death? What is said of General McClellan? Colonel 
Kelly ? 

12. What did General Butler do ? Describe the expedition. 

13. What took place at daybreak? What was the result? 
What officers were killed ? What is said of Lieutenant Greble ? 
Of Major Winthrop ? 

14. Describe the battle of Booneville. Who commanded th« 
rebels ? The Union troops ? 

15. What was done by Captain Ward ? Who had command of 
the expedition? Describe the operations of the party. What 
vessel furnished its protection ? Who was killed ? 

16. What did General Patterson's troops do? What battles 
ensued, and when ? When did Congress assemble ? What was 
recommended by the President ? 

17. Who were expelled from the Senate? 

18. Describe the battle in Missouri. Who commanded the 
Federal troops ? The Secession troops ? Give the date. 

19. Describe the battle of Rich Mountain. Who were the com- 
manders ? What did General McClellan do? What is said of 
Colonel Pegram ? 

20. Describe the battle near St. George. What general waa 
killed? What was done by General McDowell and his army? 
Where did the army then advance? Give the date. 

21. What did General Tyler do? What took place at Bull 
Run? 

22. What did General McDowell do July 21st? When did the 



Lincoln's administration. 237 

march begin ? Who commanded the divisions ? What place was 
leached at" daybreak ? How long did the firing continue ? What 
J hen took place? 

23. What was done by the masked batteries ? What were the 
Federal troops obliged to do ? What occurred at three o'clock ? 
To what places did the array retreat ? 

24. What officers were killed ? What was the plan of the com- 
mander-in-chief? AVas the plan carried out? What were the 
consequences ? 

25. Who attacked the enemy at Wilson's Creek ? Describe the 
battle. Who was killed? Who now took command? What did 
Crcneral Sigol do the following day ? 

2G. Describe the battle of Cross Lanes. Where did another 
battle occur? Who commanded the naval expedition? The land 
forces ? What were captured ? 

27. What battles now occurred ? Describe the attack on Colo- 
nel Geary's pickets. Who were sent against the enemy ? 

28. Where was General Floyd posted ? Describe the attack. 
How long did the battle continue ? What became of Floyd ? 

29. Who commenced an attack on the fort at Lexington, Mie- 
Bouri ? Who commanded the fort? Describe the battle on tlie 
17th, On the 18th. What compelled the garrison to surrender? 

30. Wlay did Major Gould cross the Potomac? To whom did 
he send for reinforcements ? What was accomplished by them ? 
What companies were attacked ? By whom were they reinforced ? 
Who commanded these forces ? 

31. Describe the battle. Who arrived on the field? What was 
done by Lieutenant Martin ? What was now done by the com- 
bined forces ? State the result. 

32. What was done by order of General Stone ? Who took the 
lead ? What took place near Leesburg ? Who now took com- 
mand? How long did the battle continue? Who was killed? 
Wounded? Who took command? Wliat means were provided 
for retreat ? 

33. Describe the attempt at recrossing the river. What were 
the respective numbers of tlie opposing forces ? What was the 
number of killed, wounded, and missing ? What is said of Colonel 
Baker ? 



238 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

34. Who recaptured Lexington? What other victories were 
gained in Missouri ? In Virginia ? What was done by General 
Scott? Who succeeded him? 

35. When was a naval expedition sent out? Of what did it 
consist? Who commanded? What did it encounter? Wher« 
did a portion of the fleet anchor, and when? What vessels 
crossed the bar the following day ? What took place on the 7th ? 
ataie the result. What town had been deserted ? 

36. Who were arrested by Commodore Wilkes? What was th« 
effect in England ? How was the affair settled ? 

37. Who were expelled from the Senate ? What battle in Vir- 
ginia? In Missouri? What were captured ? 



EVENTS OF 1862. 

1. On the 19th of January, the rebel General 
ZoUickoffer attacked General Thomas's encamp- 
ment, eight miles from Somerset, Ky. The 10th Indiana 
Regiment held the enemy in check for half an hour, when 
it was relieved by the 9th Ohio, 2d Minnesota, and 4th 
Kentucky. The 1st and 2d Tennessee were ordered on 
the right wing to outflank the enemy. After fighting for 
two hours, a desperate bayonet charge was made on the 
enemy, which drove them to their intrenchments. Night 
put an end to the conflict, and the rebel troops crossed the 
Cumberland River in the night. During the engagement, 
General Zollickofl'er was slain, and his body left on the 
battle-field. 

2. A naval expedition sent against the rebels on the 
Tennessee River, attacked Fort Henry, which surrendered 
after a spirited resistance. The surrender was made by 
General Tilghman to flag-ofiiGer Foote. After the battl« 



Lincoln's administration. 239 

the gunboats Lexington, Concstoga, and Tyler 
went up the river a distance of two hundred and 
fifty miles, from Paducah to Florence, in Alabama, at the 
head of navigation. Everywhere along the river they were 
welcomed by Union men, and their flag hailed with shouts 
of joy. Ex-President Tyler died at Ptichmond after a 
short illness. Jesse D. Bright, of Indiana, was expelled 
from the Senate for correspondence with Jefferson Davis. 

3. General Burnside, with a large body of troops, sailed 
for the coast of North Carolina, the fleet being under com- 
mand of Commodore Gold.sborough. On the 7tli of Fel>- 
ruary, the fleet advanced against Roanoke Island, and 
ftttacked the batteries. The bombardment continued 
through the day, during which the troops efi"ectcd a 
landing, and, the following morning, marched upon the 
enemy in detachments commanded by Generals Foster, 
Ileno, and Parke. After a battle of several hours' contin- 
uance, the enemy surrendered. Six forts, forty cannon,, 
three thousand small arms, and twenty-two hundred pri- 
Boners were captured. Commodore Goldsborough attacked 
and destroyed, the rebel fleet, and landed on the coast, 
when the troops captured Elizabeth City (February 8th). 

4. Edenton, Hertford, Colerain, and Plymouth were 
(Won afterwards surrendered by the inhabitants. Fort 
Donelson, on the Cumberland River, Tenn., was bombarded 
by the gunboats which had done such gallant service afe 
Fort Henry. A gulling fire from the rebel batteries in- 
flicted severe injuries upon them, and crippled their ener- 
gies. But what was lost by the naval part of the force* 
was made up by the troops who invested the fort, and 
after a severe contest compelled its surrender (February 
16th). 

5. The fort, with fifteen thousand prisoners, waa given 



240 



HISTORY Off THE UNITED STATES. 




BAITLB OF FOET DONBLSOJC. 



up to General Grant. General Floyd, with about 
five thousand men, had escaped previously. Nash- 
ville soon after submitted to the United States troops with- 
out opposition. The division of the army under General 
Banks made a forward movement, by crossing the Potomac, 
and taking possession of Harper's Ferry, Bolivar, Cliarles- 
town, Martinsburg, and other towns in Virginia. Colonel 
Geary took possession of Leesburg, and drove out General 
Hill with his entire command. Fort Johnson was taken 
possession of, and named Fort Geary (March 8th). 

6. On the 8th of March, a naval battle took place near 
Newport News. The iron-clad steamer Merrimac, and the 
steamers Yorktown and Jamestown, attacked the United 
States fleet stationed near the mouth of the James River. 
The Merrimac ran into the sloop-of-war Cumberland, which 
she sunk, and then attacked the frigate Congress, which 



Lincoln's administration. 241 

had been previously assailed by the other rebel 
steamers. The United States vessel, unable to con- 
tend against iron-clad vessels, surrendered, and her officers 
and crew became prisoners. The steamer Minnesota, sent 
to the relief of the captured vessel, ran aground, and, in 
this condition, was attacked by the Merrimac. In the 
night the Ericsson iron-clad steamer Monitor arrived, and 
at once went to the assistance of the Minnesota. 

7. On the following morning the contest was renewed, 
and carried on by the two iron-clad steamers from eight 
o'clock until noon, when the Monitor made a large hole in 
the Merrimac; the latter, with the rest of the rebel fleet, 
escaped to Norfolk. By this battle the United States lost 
two vessels, the officers of the Congress, who became 
prisoners, and the officers and crew who were drowned by 
the sinking of the Cumberland. The Minnesota was re- 
lieved from her perilous condition, and the arrival of the 
Monitor changed the fortunes of the day. 

8. Commodore Dupont, with a portion of his fleet, cap- 
tured the town of Brunswick, Geo. The fleet then pro- 
ceeded to Cumberland Sound, Florida, and took Fernandina. 
Fort Clinch was abandoned on the approach of the fleet, 
and St. Mary's was captured without opposition. The 
Army of the South- West, under General Curtis, after three 
days* hard fighting, gained an important victory over the 
combined forces of Van Dorn, McCullough, Price, and 
Mcintosh. The battle commenced on the 6th of March, 
near Sugar Creek, Arkansas, but, on the following day, 
was transferred to Pea Ridge. On the 8th the battle 
was renewed, when the enemy was routed, and retired in 
great confusion. Guns, flags, and provisions were cap- 
tured in large quantities. This battle is generally known 
by the name of Pea Ridge. 

21 



242 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

9. The rebels in Virs^inia retreated from Ma- 
nassas and Centreville, and the Federal troops 
took possession of them March 10th. A battle took place 
on the 23d, between the forces under Generals Jackson, 
Smith, and Longstreet, and the United States troops under 
General Shields. It coramenced about ten in the morning, 
and continued till dark. The rebels numbered about 
fifteen thousand, while the United States troops were eight 
thousand. The loss was heavy on both sides. The battle 
ended by the flight of the rebels, who threw away therr 
arms in their hasty retreat to Strasburg. 

10. The rebels evacuated New Madrid, Missouri, on the 
night of March 13th, leaving a quantity of guns and stores 
which they were unable to carry away. At Island No. 10,* 
in the Mississippi River, the enemy had a large force, well 
provided with artillery. Commodore Foote, with his flotilla 
and mortar-boats, attacked the fortifications on the island. 
General Pope, with his army, crossed the river from the 
Tennessee shore. This movement cut off all chance of the 
rebels' retreat, and they were obliged to surrender, after a 
Biege of several weeks' continuance. By this capitulation, 
six thousand soldiers became prisoners of war, including 
three generals. One hundred siege guns, several field 
batteries, and a large quantity of small arms and stores 
were captured. 

11. On the 14th of March, General Burnside commenced 
an attack on the enemy's works, six miles below Newbern, 
N. C. They were defended by a large force, and reached 
nearly two miles. After four hours' hard fighting, tho 
rebels were driven out of their positions, with the loss of 

* So called from its being the tenth in number from the mouth 
of the Ohio. 



uncoln's administration. 



243 




SURRENDER 01* ISLAND NO. 10. 



three batteries of field artillery, forty-six heavy 
siege guns, large stores of ammunition, three thou- 
sand small arms, and two hundred prisoners. The chief 
part of the rebels escaped by the cars to Goldsborough, 
burning the bridges over the Trent and Claremont Rivers. 
The Federal troops were commanded by Generals Reno, 
Foster, and Parks. After the capture of Newbcru, Gene- 
ral Burnside sent an expedition against Beaufort, in the 
same state. This town was evacuated by the enemy, on 
approach of the troops. 

12. The city of St. Augustine was surrendered to Com- 
modore Dupont's fleet without opposition, the municipal 
authorities receiving Commodore Rodgers in the Town 
Ilall, and raising the United States flag. Fort Marion 
was deserted by the rebel troops on approach of the gun- 
boats, and Jacksonville was surrendered by the authorities. 



344 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Generals Beauregard and Johnston left tteir po- 
sition at Coriuth, April 6th, and attacked the 
Union forces at Pittsburgh Landing, Tennessee. General 
Prentiss's division was first attacked, and driven in. Gen- 
eral Sherman's division now sustained the heaviest fire of 
the enemy, which drove the Federal troops from their 
camps, and a fresh division coming up assailed General 
McClernand's division. The battle continued till five 
o'clock, at which time the rebels had driven the Federal 
troops to the bank of the river. The gunboats Lexington 
and Tyler now threw a quantity of shell on the rebel forces, 
and nio-ht cominG: on, the combatants rested. The rebel 
forces numbered sixty thousand, while the United States 
troops did not exceed thirty-eight thousand. During the 
night the forces under Generals Lewis Wallace and Buell 
arrived. 

13. Early on the morning of the 7th, the battle was 
renewed by General Wilson on the left and General Wallace 
on the right. General Nelson's force opened a galling fire 
on the enemy, and advanced rapidly as they fell back, and 
General Buell succeeded in flanking them and capturing 
their batteries of artillery. At three o'clock, General 
Grant rode to the left, where fresh regiments had been 
ordered, and sent a portion of his body-guard to the head 
of each of the five regiments, and then ordered a charge, 
before which the rebels fled in dismay. General Buell 
followed the rebels, now in full retreat towards Corinth. 
The losses were severe on both sides. Among the killed 
was General Albert Sydney Johnston, the rebel commander, 
and General W. H. Wallace, of the United States forces. 
General Prentiss was taken prisoner at the commencement 
of the first day's battle. 

14. Fort Pulaski, Geo., was attacked and bombarded on 



Lincoln's administration. 245 

the 10th of April, by General Hunter. At two 
o'clock on the following day, a large breach haying 
been made in the walls, the garrison surrendered. Fort 
^lacon, N. 0., was surrendered April 25th, after a bom- 
bardment of more than ten hours. But the most important 
event of the war thus far, was the surrender of the city of 
New Orleans. On the approach of the fleet commanded 
by flag-ojSicer D. Cf. Farragut, the rebel army abandoned 
the city, and it was surrendered to the fleet by the munici- 
pal authorities (April 26th). Greneral Butler, with hia 
army, landed in the city soon after, taking military posses- 
sion. Baton Rouge was also occupied by the United 
States forces. 

15. Previous to the surrender of New Orleans, the enemy 
placed all sorts of obstructions in the river, to prevent the 
passage of the fleet. The bombardment of the forts St. 
Philip and Jackson commenced on the 18th of April, and 
continued until the 23d, when Commodore Farragut, with 
the fleet, passed the forts, firing upon them in the passage, 
and sustaining a terrible fire in return. The fleet, however, 
effected the hazardous passage, while the mortar-boats, 
under Commander Porter, kept up an incessant bombard- 
ment on the forts. The attack on the forts was continued 
until the 28th, when they were surrendered. The naval 
engagement resulted in the destruction or capture of the 
CMemy's fleet, thus leaving the city defenceless. General 
Lovell withdrew on approach of the fleet, and the second 
commercial city of the United States was again placed 
under Federal authority, 

1(3. General Mitchell, with his division, made a rapid 

advance through Kentucky and Tennessee, to Northern 

Alabama. They rebuilt the broken bridges, relaid the 

torn-up rails, and then surprised the enemy at Iluntsville, 

21* 



246 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

seizinar the railroad and cars, and vast quantities 

of stores. G.eneral Pope defeated the rebels at 

Farmington, took over two thousand prisoners, a large 

amount of tents, four pieces of cannon, and several hundred 

muskets. 

17. Early in April, General McClellan, with his army, 
embarked on board of transports, and proceeded down the 
Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay to Fortress Monroe. 
The troops landed on the peninsula formed by the York 
and James Rivers, and marched towards Yorktown, at 
which place the rebels had collected in strong force, and 
erected formidable batteries. The United States troops 
threw up fortifications, and prepared for the siege and 
attack. A fierce contest was now looked for, but on the 
night of May 3d, the enemy abandoned his works at York- 
town and Gloucester, and on the 4th, General McClellan 
took possession, and sent his cavalry and horse artillery, 
supported by infantry, in pursuit of the enemy. On the 
same evening the mounted troops came up with the enemy, 
and a brisk conflict ensued. 

18. At daylight on the 5th, the enemy were found to be 
strongly intrenched at Williamsburg. At eight o'clock 
the enemy opened on General Hooker's division, which was 
stationed on the left. During the engagement, the enemy 
captured three of the Federal batteries.* General Hooker's 
division sufi'ered severely, as his troops bore the whole 
brunt of the battle for several hours, before reinforcements 
came to their relief. At four o'clock fresh troops came up, 
and General Hancock's brigade made a brilHant bayonet 
charge, which drove the rebels from the field to their 
•ntrenchments. During the night these were evacuated, 

* These were recaptured the same day by General McClellan, 



Lincoln's administration. 247 

and General McClellan took possession of them 
the following morning. The same afternoon which 
witnessed the battle of Williamsburg, General Franklin 
landed with his troops at West Point, and was attacked on 
the following morning. General Newton's brigade was 
actively engaged during the battle. At three o'clock the 
firing ceased and the enemy retreated (May 6th). 

19. The Monitor and other steam vessels made an attack 
on Sewall's Point with shot and shell. The firing was 
briskly returned by the rebel batteries, and kept up for 
several hours. The Merrimac made her appearance, and 
halted some distance from the Monitor. As the latter 
vessel did not attack the Merrimac, and the rebel steamer 
refused to advance, no engagement took place between the 
vessels, and the Merrimac steamed back to Norfolk. Pre- 
sident Lincoln, who was on a visit to Fortress Monroe, 
witnessed the battle from a tug-boat. On the 10th of May, 
General Wool, with five thousand men from Fortress Mon- 
roe, landed at Willoughby's Point, and marched towards 
Norfolk. At Tanner's Creek a rebel battery had been 
erected on the opposite bank, and near a bridge. The 
rebels fired a volley of musketry on the advancing troops, 
and then set fire to the bridge. At five o'clock, the troops 
approached Norfolk, when the mayor sent out a flag of 
truce, and surrendered the city to the United States forces, 
who took possession without having fired a gun. The 
following morning the Merrimac was blown up by the 
rebels, and totally destroyed, and thus was achieved a 
bloodless victory. 

20. A severe cavalry battle took place at Lebanon, 
Tennessee, which resulted in the complete rout of Colonel 
Morgan's band of Rangers. The United States troops 
were led by General Dumont. They followed the rebels 



248 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

many miles, and surprised them in the night at 
their quarters in the town. Many were killed, 
and a hundred and sixty-nine prisoners taken. Soon aftei 
the battle of West Point, the iron-clad gunboats made an 
unsuccessful expedition up the James River, within seven 
miles of Richmond. At that point there was a heavy 
battery on a high bluff, and the river was obstructed by 
sunken vessels. The gunboats could not elevate their 
cannon sufficiently to reach the battery, and the enterprise 
was therefore abandoned. The large gun of the Naugatuck 
exploded during the action. 

21. On the 18th of May, Suffolk, seventeen miles from 
Norfolk, was occupied by the Union troops, and Sewall's 
}'oint and Craney Island were abandoned by the enemy. 
A severe battle took place at McDowell, Ya., between the 
forces under Generals Milroy and Schenck, and the rebel 
troops under Jackson. The enemy were posted on a 
mountain, down the side of which they rained a perfect 
shower of musket balls. Shortly after dark, the Ohio 
troops made a bayonet charge up the mountain, in the face 
of the enemy's fire, and drove them from their position. 
Finding a strong reserve of rebels on the opposite declivity, 
they fell back. The enemy in the mean time made a flank 
movement, attacking the Union troops on the left. The 
troops fought bravely, but finding the enemy greatly supe- 
rior in force, they retreated in good order, at nine o'clock, 
falling back to Franklin, Pendleton County. 

22. General McClellan, after the battle of AVest Point, 
steadily advanced towards Richmond. In the latter part 
of May, the troops crossed the Chickahominy, within eight 
miles of the city. On the 24th, three skirmishes took 
place. The rebels were driven from Mechanicsville, seven 
miles from Newbridge, and a body of Louisiana troops were 



Lincoln's administration. 249 

surprised and defeated, upwards of sixty killed, 
and thirty-one prisoners captured. But while those 
successes waited on the Army of the Potomac, that of the 
Shenandoah sustained a sudden and unlooked-for reverse. 
Colonel Kenley, commanding at Front lloyal, was attacked 
by a superior force, under Colonel Ashby. The troops 
made a gallant defence, falling back to the Shenandoah, 
which they crossed, destroying the bridge behind them. 
Here they made a stand, and Knapp's battery mowed down 
the enemy with shell and grape. Colonel Kenley was 
severely wounded in the early part of the battle, but con- 
tinued on horseback until late in the afternoon, when he 
fell exhausted, and was conveyed from the field in an 
ambulance, made prisoner, and, being paroled, was left at 
Winchester. • 

23. Early the next morning, the enemy attacked General 
Banks's division in great force. The troops stood their 
ground for some time, but finally retreated through Win- 
chester, forming again after leaving the town, and marching 
in good order to Martinsburg (May 25th). The enemy's 
force consisted of Ewell's and Jackson's divisions, amount- 
ing to fifteen thousand, while the Federal troops were less 
than four thousand. The retreat was continued to the 
Potomac, which was crossed at W^illiamsport, on the evening 
of the 26th. The retreating army was attacked successively, 
and engagements were w^ell contested at Strasburg, Middle- 
ton, Winchester, and Newton. Of a supply train of five 
hundred wagons, but fifty were abandoned, notwithstanding 
a forced march of fifty-three miles, and the vastly superior 
force of the enemy. 

24. Scarcely had the Confederate army succeeded in 
compelling General Banks to retreat from Virginia, Avhen 
it commenced a retrograde movement, successively with- 



250 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

drawing from Martinsburg, Charlestowii; and Win- 
chester. General Fremont, by forced marches, 
crossed the Shenandoah mountain-ranges, and arrived at 
Strasbiirg, where he met Jackson, with his command, in 
full retreat. A skirmish with a portion of the forces 
ensued, during which Jackson withdrew his main army, 
a2)d continued his retreat. 

25. General Halleck, who had succeeded General Hun- 
ter, had been posted in front of Corinth, Mississippi, Beau- 
regard's stronghold. On the 28th of May, three strong 
reconnoitring parties advanced on the right, centre, and 
left of the enemy. Their ground was hotly contested at 
every point, but the enemy was driven back with consider- 
able loss. The following night the rebels evacuated the 
town, and on the 30th, General P»pe, with the advance, 
entered and occupied it. In this retreat the enemy aban- 
doned their tents, many thousand stand of arms, and a 
quantity of provisions. They lost a quantity of clothing, 
stores, and two thousand prisoners. 

26. A desperate battle was fought in front of Richmond, 
in which the corps of Generals Sumner, Heintzelman, and 
Keyes were engaged with greatly superior numbers. At 
one o'clock the enemy attacked the Federal troops on the 
right flank. General Casey's division in the first line gave 
way before the overwhelming force of the enemy, and lost 
tiieir guns and baggage. They fell back some distance, 
after a hard-fought battle, lasting more than three hours. 
At half past four o'clock, the enemy had advanced to 
General Couch's line. The battle was renewed with great 
iury, with varied success, lasting until night. The Federal 
troops were frequently broken, but as repeatedly rallied and 
attacked the enemy. The battle was desperately fought 
on both sides, and at the approach of night, both armies 



Lincoln's administration. 251 

^g^^ discontinued the contest, and slept on the battle 
field (May 31st). 

27. The following morning the rebel army still occupied 
the camps of Casey's and Couch's divisions. General 
Heintzelman came on the ground early in the morning, 
and consulted with General Hooker on plans for the day. 
About seven o'clock, the rebels commenced firing from the 
cover of a wood on- General Hooker's division. The fire 
was promptly returned, but the enemy having the advan. 
tage of their position in the woods, it was resolved to 
dislodge them by a charge of bayonets. The enemy fired 
on the advancing troops wlien within a hundred feet of 
their line, without, however, doing much damage, and then 
fled precipitately before the fixed bayonets. The rebela 
were driven back for two miles. A hard fight was sus- 
tained by Richardson's brigade before the enemy gave 
way, but they all finally retreated before the overwhelming 
bravery of the Federal troops. At eleven o'clock the firing 
ceased, and th.e rest of the day was occupied in bringing in 
prisoners and taking care of the wounded (June 1st). 

28. On Monday the Federal troops advanced on the 
enemy, who retreated before them. A slight exchange of 
fire was made, but the rebels oflTered no serious resistance, 
until within four miles of Richmond, where the advancing 
troops took a stand and threw out pickets. This battle is 
called " Fair Oaks," * from the station near which it was 

, fought. It was one of the severest of the war, and the 
losses on both sides were enormous. 

29. Forts Pillow and Wright, on the Mississippi, which 
had been attacked by the fleet, were evacuated by their 
garrisons. Pensacola, Florida, was also evacuated by the 

♦ Called " Seven Pines" by the enemy. 



252 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

rebel troops, and the city and Fort Barrancas 
came once more under Federal authority. On the 
5th of June, flag-officer Davis arrived at Memphis, on the 
Mississippi. The rebel fleet was lying near the city. An 
engagement ensued, which ended in the rout of the enemy, 
and the capture or destruction of seven vessels. The 
mayor surrendered the city after the engagement. In 
Alabama, a detachment from General Mitchell's army, 
under General Negley, drove the enemy from ^Winchester 
through *Jasper to ^Chattanooga, and utterly defeated and 
routed them, capturing their baggage -wagons, ammunition, 
and supplies. 

30. General Fremont continued pursuing Jackson's re- 
treating army. On the 7th of June, he arrived at Harri- 
sonburg, driving out the rear of the enemy, and closely 
following. On the 8th, a battle ensued between the re- 
spective forces at " Cross Keys," which resulted in the 
rout of Jackson's troops, and their retreat to Port Republic. 
At this place a bridge crosses the Shenandoah, over which 
Jackson intended to continue his retreat. 

31. A detachment from General Shields's division was 
sent to hold this bridge, or burn it. In the night, Jack- 
son's main body, flying before Fremont, planted twenty 
guns in such a position, as to command the bridge and 
overwhelm Colonel Carroll's detachment of sixteen hundred 
men. The Federal troops contested the ground with great 
courage, until, overcome by numbers, they fell back. They 
retreated until they reached General Shields's main body, 
when the enemy crossed the Blue Ridge towards Stan- 
nardville and Gordonsville, on the way to Richmond. 

* Southern part of Central Tennessee. 



Lincoln's administration. 258 

82. The gunboats Conestoga, Mound City, and 
others, ascended the White River, for the purpose 
of removing obstructions, and communicating with the arm}- 
of General Curtis. Colonel Fitch, commander of the forces, 
landed a short distance below St. Charles, where the rebels 
had erected a battery. This was captured at the point of 
the baj'-onet, with but a very small loss on part of the 
troops. During the cannonading between the fort and the 
gunboats, a shot from one of the batteries struck the steam- 
drum of the Mound City, causing a fearful explosion, 
scalding and killing the greatest portion of the officers and 
'crew. Many sprang into the water, and, while struggling 
for life, were shot by the enemy. After the fearful catas- 
trophe, but twenty-seven out of a hundred and eighty-one 
men answered to their names at roll-call. 

33. The last week in June witnessed some very important 
movements in the army near Richmond. On the 25th, 
the troops comprising the left wing posted at White Oak 
Swamp, led by General Hooker, advanced against the 
enemy posted on the cleared land nearer the city. A 
severe battle, lasting several hours, with varied success, 
terminated in the triumph of the Federal arms, and the 
occupation of the enemy's works. General McClellan now 
made preparations for drawing in the lines of his army, 
which had been spread out to an extent not deemed prudent, 
in view of the fact that the enemy in Richmond had been 
strongly reinforced. The supplies at the White House on 
the Pamunkey River were removed, being sent by means 
of transports to the James River. On the 26th, the enemy 
in great force crossed the Chickahorainy, and attacked 
the Pennsylvania Reserves under General McCall, who 
were stationed at Mechanicsville. Falling back towards 
the position occupied by General Porter, an engagement 



254 niSTORY OP the united states. 

ensued, las tin or till nierht, leavino; the Federal 

1862. ' ^ , 1 

troops masters of the ground. 

34. The battle was renewed early on the following 
morning, the Federal troops having been ordered to with- 
draw gradually from their position. This they did in good 
order, still keeping up a fire on the enemy. After passing 
a wood, they came to an open country near " Gaines's 
Mills," on the Chickahominy. Here they halted, and the 
battle was renewed with great fury. Greneral Porter was 
reinforced by Generals Franklin, Sumner, and Keyes. 
The troops continued the battle, still keeping their ground, 
till night closed the scene. Both sides sustained severe 
losses. 

35. The troops successfully crossed the Chickahominy 
in the darkness of the night, and the bridges crossing that 
stream were destroyed. During the day (the 28th) no 
serious attack was made by the enemy. The headquarters 
of General McClellan were on the railroad at Savage 
Station. All the sick and wounded who could be moved 
were sent forward to James River. Orders were sent to 
Generals Franklin, Sumner, and Keyes to destroy the 
stores which could not be removed, and to gradually with- 
draw their forces. At midnight the transportation trains 
and artillery commenced moving towards Charles City, and 
soon afterwards were followed by General McClellan, with 
his staff and body-guard. General Smith held his position 
on the Chickahominy until the train had passed. About 
daylight all the troops were in motion, and were followed 
by the rebels, who made an attack on the corps of Sumner 
and Franklin. The battle commenced at two o'clock, and 
continued till dark, when the enemy was repulsed. This 
battle was near Savage Station (June 29 th). 



Lincoln's administration. 255 

86. On the oOth, the enemy, who had been 
reinforced, renewed the attack at the bridge of 
White Oak Swamp. About two o'clock the Union troops 
gave way, and fell back towards Turkey Island bridge, 
where the battle was continued. On the morning of July 
1st, the rebels commenced the attack. The battle lasted 
three hours, when the enemy retired. At three o'clock 
they again advanced, but being confronted by the gunboats 
and artillery, they left the field to the undisturbed posses- 
sion of the Union troops. The enemy was repulsed with 
great slaughter in this day's contest. The withdrawal of 
McClellan's army from its extended position to a more 
secure base on the James River, was now successfully 
accomplished, after seven days of severe and bloody con- 
flict, and a great loss of life. The enemy, greatly superior 
in numbers, had made desperate attempts to destroy or cap- 
ture the retiring army, but was foiled by the coolness and 
bravery of the Federal troops, from the evacuation of their 
position on the Chickahominy to their final stand on the 
James River. This battle was fought on Malvern Hills. 

37. The United States troops under General Benham, 
on James's Island, near Charleston, S. C, made an attack 
on the secession troops on the ICth of June, and were 
repulsed after four hours' hard fighting, sustaining a severe 
loss. The Army of Virginia was now consolidated, and 
placed under the command of General Pope, the three 
divisions being respectively commanded by Generals Sigel, 
Banks, and McDowell, General Fremont, by request, being 
relieved of his command. By advice of the governors of a 
number of states, the President now issued a proclamation, 
calling into the service of the United States three hundred 
thousand additional troops. 

38. On the 17th of July, Congress closed its long and 



'256 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

arduous session. Many important acts were passed 
by tliis body, the principal of whicli were, an in- 
ternal tax for additional revenue in support of the war, the 
recognition of the republics of Liberia and Hayti, an act 
confiscating the property of rebels in arms against the 
government, the abolition of slavery in the District of 
Columbia,* and its prohibition in the territories, and acts 
to increase the navy and army. 

39. One of the most perilous expeditions of the war was 
that conducted by General Curtis, who had been sent to 
suppress the rebellion in Arkansas. As the troops sent 
were not reinforced, it became necessary to change their 
base of operations, which was done by General Curtis in a 
long and tiresome march from Batesville, on the White 
River, to Helena, on the Mississippi. In his march he 
was assailed by the enemy, who did all in their power to 
obstruct his progress and destroy his army. A series of 
skirmishes ensued, in all of which the Federal troops were 
victorious, and on the 11th of July, they took possession 
of the town of Helena, terminating their fatiguing march 
in the wilderness. 

40. General Pope having been appointed to the com- 
mand of the Army of Virginia, adopted a very strict line 
of policy, directing that all disloyal male citizens within 
the army lines should be arrected. Those who took the 
oath of allegiance were permitted to remain, but on their 
refusal were sent to the South beyond the furthest picket 
stations. General Halleck, an ofBcer of great military 
experience, was now appointed to the cuinmand of the 
whole laud forces as general-in-chief, and entered on the 
performance of his duties. 

* The owners of slaves were compensated by the general gov- 
ernment. 



Lincoln's administration. 257 

41. Martiu Van Buren, the ciorhth President 

1862. , . ' . ° . 

of the United States, died at his residence, Kin- 
derhook, N. Y., July 24th, in the 80th year of his age. 
The usual honors were paid to his memory. During the 
month of August, great activity was exhibited in the re- 
cruiting department. New regiments were formed in all 
sections of the loyal states, and the President's call for 
three hundred thousand men was responded to, both in 
city and country, with great alacrity. Large sums were 
subscribed for the payment of bounties to the volunteers, 
besides that furnished to each enlisted soldier by the 
general government. 

42. On the 9th of August, a severe battle was fought 
between the United States troops commanded by General 
Banks, and the rebel forces under General Jackson. Ge- 
neral Bayard, who, with two regiments of cavalry, had 
been guarding the Rapidan, reported that the enemy had 
crossed the river in such force that he was compelled to 
retire, which he did slowly, disputing every foot of ground. 
At noon, General Crawford, with his brigade, marched to 
Bayard's relief, and occupied a position seven miles from 
Culpepper Court House, at Cedar Mountain. 

43. At four in the afternoon, General Banks attacked 
the enemy under Jackson and Ewell. The battle was 
commenced with artillery, but two hours afterwards the 
action became general. Between seven and eight o'clock, 
General Pope and General McDowell arrived on the field, 
and, with additional troops, relieved Banks's exhausted 
columns. The firing was kept up until midnight, when it 
ceased, and both armies rested. The loss on both sides 
was considerable. Many officers were killed, and Generals 
Auger and Geary severely wounded, and General Banks 
disabled at the conclusion of the battle by an accident. 



258 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Nothing was clone by either army on the day suc- 
ceeding the battle. On the 11th, General Jackson 
sent a flag of truce for permission to bury his dead remain- 
ing on the field, pending which he escaped with all his 
forces, crossing the Rapidan.* 

44. Baton Rouge was assailed by a large body of troops 
led by Breckinridge and Lovell. It was defended by 
General Williams, and the enemy was repulsed after a 
severe contest, in which the brave General Williams and 
other valuable officers were killed. During the battle, the 
iron-clad ram Arkansas was attacked by the gunboat Essex, 
Commander Porter. His shot pierced the side of the 
enemy's vessel, which was abandoned and blown up. 

45. While these events were transpiring, the Army of 
the Potomac, commanded by General McClelian, was moved 
quietly from its position at Harrison's Landing to Williams- 
burg, without loss of a man, or any of its stores or equip- 
ments. The movement was executed with consummate 
mastership. In consequence of this movement, Jackson, 
now reinforced by all the troops who were no longer needed 
in Richmond, endeavored to surprise General Pope, and 
capture or destroy his army, before a coalition with Gene- 
rals Burnside or McClelian could be effected. General 
Pope, therefore, withdrew his whole command from Cul- 
pepper, and crossed the Rappahannock (August 20th). 

46. On the following day there was considerable skir- 
mishing, and the enemy made a number of attempts to 
cross the river. It was, however, deemed advisable to 
retire farther back, as the rebels were in immense force, 
and the river was no longer tenable. General Pope, 

* Rapidan or Eapid Ann, a brancli of the Rappahannock River, 
Virginia. 



Lincoln's administration. 259 

,0^0 therefore, moved with his command toWarrenton, 
and thence along the raih-oad to Manassas Junc- 
tion. On the 27th, a severe action took place near Kettle 
Run, between General Hooker's division and the advance 
of E well's division, ending with the defeat of the latter. 

47. On the 29th, a severe battle took place near the old 
battle-field of Bull Kun, lasting all day. The Federal 
troops had a decided advantage, driving the enemy from 
the field in the latter part of the afternoon. But being 
reinforced, the enemy advanced, and General McDowell's 
troops were compelled to retreat. General Porter arrived 
at sunset, and checked the enemy's advance, allowing 
McDowell to withdraw with his weary and exhausted 
troops. The next day the whole army fell back to Centre- 
ville, thence to Fairfax, and the following day to Alexandria, 
perfectly exhausted with their harassing retreat. 

48. A junction of the armies under Generals McClellau, 
Pope, and Burnside was now eifected. General Pope 
withdrew, and General McClellan was appointed commander 
of the Army of Virginia. Great alarm was felt in every 
portion of country adjacent to this bold advance of the 
rebels. Washington was threatened, and an announcement 
made that the enemy intended the invasion of Maryland 
and Pennsylvania, and the capture of their principal cities. 
In the sixteen battles which marked this retreat of the 
Federal troops, much valuable property was lost, and many 
brave men fell in the attempt to stay the progress of the 
rebel armies, among whom may be enumerated, Generals 
Kearney, Stevens, and Taylor. 

49 The rebel army did not long remain inactive. Their 
first movement was to cross the l*otomae at three difi"erent 
fords, and march to the fertile portion of Maryland. They 
soon took possession of Frederick, seizing cattle, grain, and 



200 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 

a great quantity of stores. They then sent a de- 
tachment to Hagerstown, which they occupied, 
threatening an advance into Pennsylvania through the 
fertile meadows and rich pastures of the Cumberland 

50. On the 14th, a severe battle took place between the 
rebel army which had retreated from Frederick, and the 
advanced forces of General McClellan. The rebel army 
was posted on South Mountain, a part of the Catoctin 
range. The respective divisions of the Federal army were 
commanded by Generals Hooker, Franklin, and Reno. 
The fire of cannon and musketry was very severe for two 
hours, when the enemy wavered. A general charge now 
being ordered, the enemy was driven from the mountain 
and through Crampton Gap in a disordered mass, taking 
the road to Boonsboro', pursued by the victors for two 
miles, when darkness closed the contest. The loss wa.s 
heavy on both sides, and the Union troops lost a brave 
officer, General Reno, who was killed in the early part of 
the engagement. 

51. While this battle was in progress, the post at Har- 
per's Ferry, under command of Colonel Miles, was attacked 
by a strong force of the enemy. Cannonading was kept 
up all day, and resumed early the following morning. 
About nine o'clock. Colonel Miles displayed a white flag, 
and surrendered the post to General Jackson. The garri- 
son, more than eleven thousand in number, were paroled, 
and all the arms and stores given up to the rebels. Colonel 
Miles was mortally wounded, and died soon afterwards 
(September 15th). 

52. The threatened invasion of Pennsylvania awakened 
a spirit of patriotism in its inhabitants, and in a short space 
of time fifty thousand militia were arrayed in arms, ready 



LINCOLN S ADMINISTRATION. 



2G1 







BATTLE OF ANTLETAM. 



to meet the enemy. In tlie mean time the great 
battle of Antietam or Sharpsburg was fought, and 
the enemy abandoned Maryland, thus relieving Pennsyl- 
vania of all fears of the threatened invasion. The two 
armies met in hostile encounter on the 16th. The whole 
forces of each contending party were arrayed on the banks 
of the Antietam, a deep stream fordable at but few points. 
Ueneral Hooker crossed the creek, and attacked the enemy 
on the left, continuing the skirmish while daylight lasted. 
On the 17th,. the battle commenced at daylight. The 
enemy were commanded by Generals Lee, Jackson, Hill, 
and Longstreet, the best commanders in the rebel service. 

53. General Hooker sustained the whole brunt of the 
battle on the enemy's left for four hours, when he was 
severely wounded and compelled to leave the field. General 
Sumner, who held the centre, now took command, and was 



262 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

joined by General Franklin, with fresh troops. 

The enemy was now vigorously assailed and driven 
back. On the right of the enemy, General Burnside had 
command, and sustained a severe conflict at the bridge, 
which was finally captured. Once over the creek a strong 
position was carried, but could not be held against the 
numbers brought forward by the enemy. Burnside, how- 
ever, made a gallant stand, maintained his ground till 
darkness came on, when the firing ceased, terminating the 
battle with great loss on both sides. This severe conflict 
commenced at five in the morning and ended at seven in 
the evening, without pause or intermission. 

54. On the night of the 18th, the whole rebel force 
crossed the Potomac, closely pursued by General Pleasanton. 
Harper's Ferry was also evacuated, and the Union troops 
once more took possession of that post, and the adjacent 
heights. The battle of Antietam was considered by both 
parties as more important than any which preceded. On 
its issue depended the fate of Maryland, of Southern Penn- 
sylvania, and the Federal capital. The strength of both 
ra-mies was fully tested, and the rebel army compelled to 
evacuate Maryland. The losses were fearful. By the 
oflicial report of the commanding general, it appears that 
the Union loss in killed, wounded, and missing was twelve 
thousand four hundred and sixty. The estimated loss of 
rhe enemy twenty-five thousand five hundred and forty- 
two. 

55. The city of Natchez was bombarded by Commodore 
Porter with his iron-clad vessel, the Essex, and obliged to 
raise the American flag, and the town of Bayou Sara was 
burned. In Mississippi a battle took place near the village 
of luka, between General Rosecrans and the rebel General 
l^rice, which resulted in the rout of the enemy. The 



Lincoln's administratiok. 263 

rebels captured the town of Miimfordsville, Ken- 
tucky. The garrison made a gallant defence, but 
were overpowered by superior numbers. Louisville waa 
threatened, and great fears for its safety were entertained 
by the inhabitants. General Bragg had gathered a large 
army, and aimed at the subjugation of the whole state. 
But he was closely followed by Greneral Buell, who drove 
him out of Mumfordsville, pursued him a long distance, 
and then with his army marched to Louisville, relieving 
the inhabitants from the dread of a rebel attack. 

56. After the battles of Maryland and the invading 
army's evacuation of that state, several reverses befell the 
Union troops. One was the assault on a detachment sent 
to reconnoitre near Shepherdstown, Va., which resulted in 
the defeat of the Federal arms. In this engagement the 
Corn Exchange Kegiment of Pennsylvania suffered very 
severely. Other disasters followed, the most mortifying 
of which was a sudden incursion into Pennsylvania by a 
body of rebel cavalry, who captured the towns of Mercers- 
burg and Chambersburg, and escaped with their plunder 
before any troops could harass or intercept them. 

57. Early in October, the enemy under command of Van 
Dorn, Price, and Lovell made an attack on the Union 
troops at Corinth, Miss. The battle commenced on the 
morning of the 3d, and continued through the day. It 
was renewed on the following morning, the enemy firing 
with shot and shell. At nine o'clock they ceased firing, 
and advanced rapidly in heavy columns on the town. The 
engagement soon became general, the batteries opening a 
destructive fire on the enemy, who, however, pressed for- 
ward with reckless daring, broke through the lines of 
infantry, and entered the streets of Corinth. But now the 
Union soldiers, after a desperate conflict, rolled back the 



264 HISTORY or the united states. 

tide of battle, and the enemy fled, attacked in 
their retreat by Generals Ord and Hurlbut, and 
closely followed by Greneral Rosecrans. At the Hatchie 
River the fio-htinc: was renewed, and ended with the com- 
plete defeat and dispersion of the rebel army, by General 
Rosecrans and his brave soldiers, who continued the pursuit 
of the flying enemy until recalled by order of Major-General 
Grant. 

58. On the 9th of October, a battle was fought between 
the Union troops under command of General Buell, and 
the rebel troops under General Bragg, at Perryville, Ky. 
The conflict commenced early in the morning, and con- 
tinued through the day with varied success. At sundown, 
however, the tiring ceased, and the enemy withdrew from 
the ground, leaving the Union troops in possession. The 
loss was large on both sides, and, although the enemy 
retired, the Union troops gained no advantages deserving 
the name of victory. After this battle the troops of Gene- 
rals Bragg and Kirby Smith evacuated Kentucky, escaping 
across the mountains into Tennessee. 

59. After the battle of Antietam nothing decisive took 
place in Virginia for some weeks. The Union army fol- 
lowed the retreating rebel forces from Maryland, and 
several skirmishes and minor engagements occurred. Of 
these we may notice a conflict at Barbus, between cavalry 
troops, resulting in the defeat of the rebels; a successful 
reconnoissance by General Geary; the capture of Warrenton 
by General Reynolds ; and the pursuit of the enemy by 
General Pleasanton. On the 8th of November, the govern- 
ment relieved General McClellan from command of the 
army, appointing General Burnside as his successor. 

60. The Army of the South sustained a severe loss in 
the death of Major-General 0. M. Mitchell, its commander. 



Lincoln's administration. 265 

I8»a, ^® ^^®^ ®^ *^® ^^^^ ^^ October, at Beaufort, S. C. 
General Mitchell had rendered very important ser- 
vices during the war, was much beloved by his soldiers, 
and his death was deeply lamented by his gallant army. 
The important commercial town of Galveston, in Texas^ 
aurrendered to Commodore Renshaw, commander of the 
fleet sent against it. The fort commanding the Sabine 
Pass, on the coast of Texas, was captured by a fleet under 
command of Captain Crocker. After the surrender of the 
fort he landed a party, who, under cover of the guns of the 
steamer, captured two camps, burned a bridge and a large 
number of buildings used as barracks. 

61. In Louisiana, an expedition under command of 
General Weitzel encountered the rebel forces at Labadie- 
ville, and put them to rout after a short contest. Among 
those slain in this battle was the colonel in command of the 
enemy. General Burnside, after his appointment to the 
command of the Army of Virginia, continued to make a 
steady progress. By the middle of November, his large 
army arrived at the Rappahannock, opposite Fredericks- 
burg. On the 21st, by his orders. General Sumner sent 
a communication to the civil authorites demanding the 
surrender of the town, and threatening to shell it should 
the demand be refused, allowing sixteen hours for the 
removal of the women and children. This threat, however, 
was not enforced. 

62. On the reassembling of Congress (December 1st), 
the President in his message presented in forcible language 
the evils which would attend a separation of the states, 
declaring that such a measure "would multiply and not 
mitigate evils among us.'' With a view, therefore, of pre- 
venting this strife, the President recommended such an 
amendment to the Constitution as would grant a compensa- 



266 HISTOBY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

tion to those states which should abolish slavery. 

By a previous Act of Congress and the President's 
Proclamation, the slaves of rebels are declared to be for 
ever free on and after the 1st of January. 

63. The Secretary of the Navy in his annual report, 
after reciting the operations of the naval forces during th<? 
past year, speaks thus of the depredations of a piratical 
privateer: *"With the exception of the rebel armed 
steamer Sumter, no other armed vessel has plundered our 
commerce, or inflicted injury on our countrymen within a 
recent period, when a steamer known as ^290 or Alabama, 
built and fitted out in England — a vessel that had not been 
in any port or visited any waters but those of Great 
Britain — went forth from the shores of that country rav- 
aging, sinking, burning, and destroying the property of our 
merchants, who were totally unprepared for such assault 
and devastation.^' 

64. The Secretary of War stated that the portion of the 
United States which had been the scene of military opera- 
tions, was divided into ten departments, and that the entire 
force constituting these armies amounted to more than 
eight hundred thousand men, fully armed and equipped. 
During the year several tribes of Indians of the Norths 
West, incited by rebel emissaries, made a sudden attack 
an the peaceful inhabitants of Minnesota, killing indis- 
t'rlmiuately men, women, and children. The savages wer<^ 
attacked by a volunteer force and defeated in several 
battles on the upper waters of the Minnesota Eiver. 

65. In Mississippi the rebel forces deserted their fortifi- 
cations and fled to Oxford, pursued by the troops belonging 

* Secretary Welles's Official Report. 

J So called from being owned by 290 persons. 



Lincoln's administration. 26T 

to General Grant's army. In Arkansas a battle 
ensued between the troops under General Curtis 
and the enemy under General Hindman. General Blunt 
was posted near Cane Hill when attacked by the enemy, 
twenty-five thousand in number, who attempted a flank: 
movement to prevent the arrival of General Herron's 
ibrces, who were approaching by forced marches. The 
following day the enemy attacked General Herron, near 
Fayetteville. The battle continued for three hours, when 
General Blunt came up, effecting a union with General 
Herron. At night the Union troops remained on the field, 
and the enemy retreated across the Boston Mountain. 

66. In Hartsville, Tennessee, a battle took place between 
the advanced Union forces and the rebel troops under 
General Morgan, the guerilla leader. The battle lasted 
more than an hour, when Colonel Moore, the leader of the 
Union troops, was compelled to surrender his entire brigade 
to the enemy. On the 3d of December, General Geary, 
with a body of troops, marched from Harper's Ferry upoU; 
Winchester, and demanded its surrender. The town waS; 
at once given up. He had skirmishes with the enemy at; 
Charlestown and Berryville, compelling them to retreat, 
capturing a number of horses and mules, and taking pos- 
session of a quantity of military stores. 

67. We left General Burnside and the Army of the; 
Potomac on the Rappahannock Eiver, opposite Fredericks-, 
burg. That vigilant commander had, in the mean time, 
made every preparation for advance, and on the morning 
of the 11th of December, the engineers commenced their 
work on three bridges in front of the city. During the 
progress of the work, the rebels, concealed in houses, opened 
a destructive fire. The Union troops then began a fierce 
cannonading on the city, which had the effect of driving 



268 HISTORY OP THB UNITED STATES. 

„^„ back the assailants, and the work on the bridges 

was again commenced. But it wag found necee- 

gary to send over a party in boats to dislodge the rebels, 

who had again opened fire. This was effected, the bridges 

completed, and the army began to cross the river. 

68. The following morning the troops continued the 
crossing, and soon had possession of Fredericksburg. The 
enemy, posted on a ridge, opened a fire on the troops in the 
city, but their battery was silenced, and firing ceased for 
the day. On the 13th a general attack was made on the 
enemy, who were posted on a range of hills near the city. 
On the right, General Sumner sent General French's divi- 
sion to assail the enemy's works in the rear of the city. 
When the troops emerged from the streets, the enemy's 
batteries opened on them with a terrific fire. The troops, 
however, steadily advanced until within a short distance 
of the crest of hills on which were the enemy's breastworks. 
Here a perfect storm of shot and shell hailed upon them, 
checking further advance. They, however, maintained 
their ground till their ammunition was expended, when 
they were relieved by General Hancock's division. 

69. The battle-ground was held for two hours by General 
Hancock's troops, who were in turn relieved by General 
Howard. His troops behaved with the gallantry which 
marked the brave men who preceded them, but it did not 
avail against the strong position and deadly fire of the 
enemy. General Franklin, who commanded the attack on 
the left, was more successful, driving the enemy some 
distance, and capturing several hundred prisoners.* The 
battle was continued with great daring and courage, until 

* General Reynolds, of Franklin's army corps, commenced the 
battle. 



269- 

darkness closed over the combatants. The Union. 

troops lost a large number in killed and wounded. 
Among the oflScers who fell were General Bayard, of the 
United States cavalry, and General Jackson, of the Penn- 
sylvania Reserves. 

70. After the battle of Fredericksburg, and the failure 
of the Union forces in dislodging the rebels from their 
(Strongholds, General Burnside removed his whole army 
across the llappahannock. This movement was commenced 
in the night of December 15th, and accomplished success- 
fully, and without the loss of a single man. General 
Burnside, in a letter to the general-in-chief, states the 
causes of failure, exonerates the government from blame,: 
and assumes all the responsibility. lie states that the 
number of killed was eleven hundred and fifty-two, wounded 
seven thousand, a large number slightly, and nine hundred 
prisoners, who were paroled and exchanged for an equal 
number taken from the enemy. 

Questions on Events of 1862. — 1. What battle in Kentucky ? 
Give a description. Who was killed? 

2. What fort on the Tennessee River was attacked ? To whom 
was the surrender made? What occurred after the capture? 
IIow were the troops received ? What death is recorded ? Why 
was Senator Bright expelled ? 

3. What was done by General Burnside ? Who commanded the 
tieet ? What battle ensued ? Who commanded the detachments ? 
What were captured ? What was done by Commodore Goldsbo- 
vough ? 

4. What towns were surrendered ? What fort was attacked ? 
By whom was it taken ? 

• o. How many prisoners were taken ? Who commanded the 
Federal troops ? What is said of Floyd ? Of Nashville ? What 
was done by the division under General Banks ? By Colonel 
Geary? 

6. When and where was a naval battle ? By what vessels was 
23* ' 



270 HISTORY OP THE UNITED STATES. 

the United States fleet attacked ? What -was done by the Merri- 
mac ? What is said of the Minnesota ? What vessel came to its 
assistance ? 

7. Describe the contest of March 9th. What vessels were lost 
to the United States? What is said of the Monitor? 

8. Wliat towns were captured by Commodore Dupont ? What 
forts? Who commanded the Army of the South-West? What 
generals were opposed to him ? When and where did the battle 
commence ? To what place was it transferred ? How long did it 
continue, and with what result ? 

9. What places were abandoned in Virginia ? Who commanded 
the rebel troops in the battle near Strasburg ? The Federal 
troops ? What number on each side ? Describe the battle. 

10. What place was evacuated March 13th? Where was a 
strong fortification ? Why was it so named ? What was done by 
Commodore Foote ? By General Pope ? IIow long did the siege 
continue ? What were captured ? 

11. What was done by General Burnside ? Describe the battle. 
What were captured ? How did the chief part of the rebels es- 
cape? By whom were the Federal troops commanded? What 
town was evacuated ? 

12. What is said of St. Augustine? Who took possession? 
What is said of Fort Marion ? Jacksonville ? What was done by 
.Johnston and Beauregard ? What division was first attacked ? 
What is said of General Sherman's division ? General McCler- 
nand's division? What was done by the gunboats that evening? 
What was the numerical force of each army ? 

13. Who renewed the battle the following day? What was 
done by General Nelson ? General Buell ? General Grant ? 
What was the result ? What generals were killed ? Who wa» 
made prisoner ? 

14. What forts were bombarded and taken ? What city was 
surrendered ? To what naval officer ? Who took military poBsee- 
sion ? What is said of Baton Rouge ? 

15. What had the enemy done to prevent the passage of the fleet ? 
What forts were bombarded ? What was done by Commodore 
Farragut ? Who continued the assault on the forts ? When were 
they surrendered ? In what did the naval engagement result ? 

16. Relate the achievements of General Mitchell. General Pope. 



Lincoln's administration. 271 

17. What was done by General McClellan early in April? 
Where did the troops land ? What had the enemy done ? What 
preparations were made by the United States troops ? What took 
place in the night of May 3d ? What did General McClellan do 
t.he next day ? 

18. Where were the enemy intrenched? Which division was 
attacked ? Describe the battle. What was done by General 
Hancock's brigade ? What occurred that night? The following 
morning? Where did General Franklin land? Whose brigade 
was actively engaged ? What did the enemy do ? 

19. Give an account of an attack on Sewall's Point. What is 
said of the Merrimac ? What is said of President Lincoln ? 
What was done by General Wool ? Describe the march and its 
result. What became of the Merrimac ? 

20. What is said of the battle at Lebanon ? What was done by 
the gunboats on the James River? What prevented their suc- 
cess ? What occurred during the action ? 

21. What town was captured? What places abandoned by the 
enemy ? Describe the battle at McDowell. Who commanded tho 
forces ? To what place did the United States troops fall back ? 

22. What did General McClellan do after the battle of West 
Point ? What river was crossed by the troops ? What took place 
at Front Royal ? Who commanded ? Describe the battle. What 
is said of Colonel Kenley ? 

23. Whose division was attacked the following morning ? Who 
commanded the enemy? Describe the retreat. Where did en- 
gagements take place during the retreat ? What number of troopf 
had the enemy ? General Banks ? What is said of the losses ? 
How many miles did the army retreat ? 

24. What is said of the Confederate army ? What was done bv 
General Fremont ? By Jackson ? 

25. Where was General Halleck? Relate tho events of May 
28th. What was done by the rebels ? What did they lose ? 

26. What battle was fought ? What generals were engaged in 
the contest ? Describe the battle. 

27. Where was the rebel army the following morning ? When 
was the battle renewed? What was done by the troops under 
General Hooker ? Describe the charge. What is said of Richard- 
son's brigade ? Of the enemy ? The Federal troops ? 



272 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

28. Give an account of Monday's battle. What is this battle 
called ? What is said of it ? 

29. What forts and city were evacuated ? What is said of Fort 
Barrancas? Where did flag-officer Davis arrive in June ? What 
engagement ensued ? What was done by the mayor ? What was 
done by General Negley ? 

30. Describe the operations of General Fremont. When and 
where was a battle ? To what place did the rebels retreat ? 
What bridge was here ? 

31. Who sent a detachment to guard the bridge? What was 
done by Jackson's army ? Who commanded the Federal troops ? 
What was the number in Carroll's detachment ? How far did 
they retreat ? What was now done by the enemy ? 

. 32. What river was ascended by gunboats ? For what purpose? 
W'hat was done by Colonel Fitch ? What fearful disaster occurred? 
How many were killed by this explosion ? 

33. What is said of the battle of White Oak Swamp ? What 
did General McClellan now do ? The enemy ? W^hat battle 
ensued ? 

34. What was now done by the Federal troops ? Describe the 
battle of Gaines's Mills. By whom was General Porter rein- 
forced ? 

35. Describe the further movements of the troops. What was 
done with the sick and wounded ? Describe the retreat, and the 
oattle near Savage Station. 

36. At what place did the enemy commence the attack? To 
what place did the Union troops withdraw ? Describe the battle 
of Malvern Hills. What is said of General McClellan's with- 
drawal ? 

37. Describe the battle of James's Island. Under whom was 
the Army of Virginia placed? W^ho commanded the divisions? 
How many additional troops were now called into service by the 
President ? 

38. What important acts were passed during the session of Con- 
gress? What is said of the slave-owners? (Note.) 

39. Who was sent to suppress rebellion in Arkansas ? Describe 
his retreat. 

40. What was directed by General Pope ? What is said of 
General Halleck ? -; 



Lincoln's administration. 273 

41. When and at what age did Martin Van Buren die ? What 
is said of recruiting ? What inducements were offered recruits ? 

42. Where did a battle take place ? Who commanded the re- 
spective forces ? Who commanded the cavalry ? What general 
came to his relief? 

43. Describe the battle of Cedar Mountain. Name all the 
generals of divisions. What officers were wounded ? What was 
done by General Jackson ? 

44. By whom was Baton Rouge assailed ? By whom defended '/ 
Describe the naval engagement. 

45. Describe General McClellan's movements. Jackson's. What 
did General Pope do ? 

46. What occurred at the Rappahannock ? To what places did 
General Pope remove ? What battle took place ? 

47. Describe the battle near Bull Run. What is said of Gene- 
ral Porter ? To what place did the army move on the day fol- 
lowing ? Where did the retreat terminate ? 

48. What junction was effected ? Who succeeded General Pope 
as commander? What places were threatened? How many 
battles had occurred during General Pope's retreat ? What gen- 
«rals were killed ? 

49. What did the rebel army now do ? What towns did they 
capture ? 

60. Where did a battle take place ? Who commanded the divi- 
sions of the Federal army ? Deacribe the battle. What is said 
of General Reno ? 

51. What strong post was attacked ? By whom was it surren- 
dered ? How many became prisoners ? 

52. What effect was produced in Pennsylvania? What great 
battle followed ? What was done by General Hooker on the 16th ? 
When did the battle commence on the 17th ? Who commanded 
the enemy ? What is said of them ? 

53. What is said of General Hoolwcr? Sumner? Franklin? 
Describe General Burnside's movements. When did this battle 
commence, and when terminate ? 

54. What was done on the night of the 18th? By whom were 
the rebels pursued ? What places were now occupied by the 
Union troops ? What is said of the battle ? What were the esti- 
mated losses ? 



274 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

55. What occurred at Natchez? What battle in Mississippi? 
Name the commanders. What town was captured by the rebels ? 
What was done by General Bragg ? General Buell ? 

56. Where were the troops defeated ? What regiment suffered 
most ? Describe the rebel incursion into Pennsylvania. 

57. When and where was an attack made on the Union troops ? 
By what generals ? Describe the battle. By whom were the 
rebels attacked in their retreat ? By whom followed ? Where 
was the battle renewed ? By whom were the troops recalled ? 

58. What battle took place ? Who commanded ? Describe the 
battle. What troops evacuated Kentucky ? 

59. What took place in Virginia after the battle of Antietam ? 
Who succeeded General McClellan in command of the army ? 

60. When and where did General Mitchell die ? What places 
were captured in Texas ? Name the commanders. 

61. Give an account of General Weitzell's expedition. What 
was done by orders from General Burnside ? What was threat- 
ened ? 

62. What did the President recommend ? 

63. What is said of the Alabama? By what other name ia 
that vessel known? Why was it so called? (Note.) 

64. What statement is made by the Secretary of War ? Give 
an account of the Indians of the North- West. What state suffered 
most? 

65. What took place in Mississippi? Describe the battle of 
Fayetteville. Who commanded the armies ? Name the Union 
generals engaged ? 

66. What was the result of the battle in Hartsville ? What was 
done by General Geary ? What skirmishes was he engaged in ? 

67. What did General Burnside do ? Describe the crossing of 
the river. 

68. What city was taken ? What was done by the enemy ? 
When was a general attack made ? Who assailed on the right ? 
Describe the battle. Who came to French's relief ? 

69. Who relieved General Howard ? Who commanded on the 
left? Who commenced the battle? What officers were killed? 

70. What did General Burnside do after the battle? What 
number were killed, wounded, and prisoners ? 



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